Chinese scientists create laser photon engine capable of transmitting data over 1.2 kilometers
An international team of researchers led by Professor Zhiguo Xia from the South China University of Technology has developed a new type of photonic device for wireless communication. This "photon laser engine" is capable of transmitting massive amounts of data using white light over a record distance of more than 1.2 kilometers. The technology is based on a laser transmitter that converts a high-intensity light beam into a data transmission channel. This is reported by Ixbt.com reports .
Currently, visible light communication (VLC) systems have serious limitations: standard LEDs can only transmit data over a few meters. The new development solves this problem by using focused laser beams. The device was created using inexpensive and heat-resistant transparent ceramics, which remain stable even under high-power radiation.
The main problem with previous devices was the overheating and degradation of materials under laser influence. Scientists abandoned polymers and silicon, developing a robust ceramic based on lutetium, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, and silicon oxides. The addition of cerium ions allowed for the control of light properties. As a result, the new ceramic dissipates heat 20 times more efficiently than silicon analogs.
In the future, this technology is expected to become a key element of 6G networks. Such systems will integrate ground stations, satellites, and aerial platforms, providing connectivity in hard-to-reach areas like oceans, deserts, and mountainous regions. It will also support data transmission for real-time artificial intelligence systems.
For now, the technology is in the development stage. Researchers plan to further improve materials to accelerate signal modulation, integrate laser communication channels with radio networks, and implement AI systems that automatically adjust signal power based on environmental conditions.
