POSTER: Leveraging Solar Panels for Light Communication: Analyzing the Role of Configuration in Signal Reception

Solar panels, traditionally used for energy harvesting, are emerging as viable optical receivers for visible light communication (VLC). This work investigates the impact of different solar panel configurations—series, parallel, and standalone (single panel)—on their performance as VLC receivers. A series configuration reduces junction capacitance, enhancing bandwidth and response time and making it ideal for high-speed optical communication. However, the increased impedance may affect signal reception efficiency. In contrast, a parallel configuration increases overall capacitance, which can limit bandwidth and slow response time but provide better signal strength. The single-panel configuration offers a balanced approach, ensuring efficient signal reception without additional circuit complexities. Experimental evaluations focus on key communication metrics such as bandwidth and solar panel time response. While the impact on energy harvesting is acknowledged, the primary emphasis is on optimizing signal reception for high-speed VLC applications. Solar panel enabled long distance communication links can enhance mid-haul and front-haul networking, extending connectivity to rural and remote areas.