From Light to Li-Fi: Research Challenges in Modulation, MIMO, Deployment Strategies and Handover

Abstract

With an increasing number of network-connected devices, there is a need for new and innovative ways of providing communication. Due to the over-usage of existing Radio Frequency(RF) spectrum, it is essential to explore other alternatives. A possible solution for reducing the load over RF spectrum for communication could be the usage of alternative 380 to 740 nanometers wavelength, i.e., Visible Light spectrum. It satisfies multiple objectives, such as provisioning of illumination and communication. Characteristics of channel and propagation medium have been studied to provide the required preliminary understanding of the problem domain. The primary research focuses on Li-Fi communication is in the area of modulation techniques and handover management. Various existing modulation techniques have been studied and compared with respect its performance parameters such as attainable bandwidth, spectral efficiency, noise ratio, and illumination. Different MIMO techniques, design requirement, deployment patterns, and Handover techniques have also been highlighted. This work provides open research challenges related to modulation techniques, MIMO, Handover, and Deployment Strategies for Li-Fi. � 2019 IEEE.