Angle diversity for nondirected wireless infrared communication

We outline the benefits and challenges of using angle diversity in nondirected wireless infrared (IR) communications systems. Multiple transmitter beams and multiple narrow field-of view receivers reduce the path loss, multipath distortion, and background noise of the channel, which leads to improved range. We also discuss practical considerations for multielement angle diversity systems, including channel characterization and suboptimal detection techniques. Maximal-ratio combining provides nearly optimal performance up to 100 Mb/s for the angle diversity systems considered. The design and performance of a prototype angle diversity IR communication system are discussed. The prototype can maintain 70 Mb/s at a P/sub e/ of 10/sup -9/ over a 4-m range.