Technology Tuesdays: What is Li-Fi?

Hello Partners!

If you have a pulse, I am sure you have heard of Wi-Fi. This is the wireless interface through which we can connect our computers, laptops, and mobile devices to the internet. But what on earth is Li-Fi?

Wi-Fi and Li-Fi share the exact same concept however they use different technology to achieve their common goal. Wi-Fi uses a radio signal to achieve internet connectivity and transmit information. On the other hand, Li-Fi uses the light waves from luminaires, most commonly equipped with LEDs, to do the same thing. So, how would you like to turn on your lights and get internet service throughout your home or office?

Sounds cool, but what’s the big deal?

Li-Fi has a few advantages over Wi-Fi. Some of the biggest advantages include:

  1. Li-Fi does not use radio waves to transmit information. Therefore, it is not subject to electromagnetic interference making it ideal for spaces such as hospitals and police departments.

  2. Li-Fi can be installed in luminaire fixtures throughout a facility increasing the number of access points. This solves many of the bandwidth issues we currently experience with Wi-Fi. These issues will likely only get worse over time as more and more devices require internet connectivity.

  3. Finally, Li-Fi can be 20-30 times faster than Wi-Fi in certain applications.

Li-Fi is an exciting technology however, it is not exactly new. Li-Fi technology has been slow to the market because companies have been slow to add Li-Fi functionality to their electronic devices. As with most markets, new technology will take some time to be adopted. However, once it begins to catch on, it can become ubiquitous in no time. I believe Li-Fi will be one of those technologies. We will keep an eye out on developments in this space!

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Sources:
https://lifi.co/what-is-lifi/
https://www.ledsmagazine.com/leds-ssl-design/networks-controls/article/16695504/lifi-picks-up-speed-but-oh-that-dongle-magazine

 

SJVCEOTechnology Tuesday, Energy Savings, Li-Fi, LEDs, light waves, Electronic Devices