Design and Implementation of an Ethernet-VLC Interface for Broadcast Transmissions

In this work, a complete interface between Ethernet and Visible Light Communications (VLC) networks is presented. It requires the use of previously proposed DPPM schemes for this kind of applications, but with some modifications so as to keep constant duty cycle in order to assure its use in illumination facilities. The prototype has been tested using a 2Mbps VLC Link, obtaining distances of, at least, 3 meters in an interfering environment. The PPM characteristics allow transmission without severe signal degradation on this environment. This Ethernet-VLC interface is intended to demonstrate the capability of IP broadcast applications of this kind of devices. This interface performs packing functions and flow control.