Using Light to wirelessly send data !! Light fidelity !! Apple experimenting with LI-FI

Many researches are being done to use lighting as a source to transmit data wirelessly.

The most basic and common understanding of the above will be our traffic lights. Depending on the lighted colours and whether it is flashing or not, it provides information to users. Of course that is because we have learnt and pre-define the lighting presentation.

Fast forward to 2016, we are actively exploring how LED lightings are able to transmit signals to a receiver where it had been programmed to understand the language of lights. With it, tremendous amount of costs in infrastructure can be saved.

LED Lightings being a point source focus pulse lighting with standardise frequency in its operations (specific models) allow communicate to be made simpler. It is also possible to achieve high speed transfer of data packages.

I've come across a recent report that Apple is experimenting with this technology in its products. In time to come, this will surely be the next break through in the lighting industry.

Latest iOS code showing LiFi capabilities for future iPhones

Experimental set-up of a Li-Fi receiver

Imagine with just normal daylight  (CCT: 6000K) light bulbs and we can enhance the wireless network in your homes, offices and living spaces. Not only will internet linked security systems be enhanced, gamers and end users will also not be frustrated with inconsistent network signal strength.

References:
- http://www.led-professional.com/technology/electronics/apple-experimenting-with-ultra-fast-light-based-li-fi-wireless-data-for-future-iphones

- http://www.led-professional.com/technology/electronics/enhanced-data-transmission-for-li-fi-communications-using-led-lighting-see-more-at-http-www.university-technology.com-opportunity-455-enhanced-data-transmission-for-li-fi-communications-using-led-lighting

Key players in direct AC LED applications! (No Drivers for LED lighting)

LED lighting is already well known as a small and efficient light source. Can we make the LED lighting more user friendly, more efficient and less complicated for users?

YES! we use LED lightings without an external driver!

It is widely known that almost all LED lights are DC operated and require a driver/transformer to make it light up. The lifespan of the LED luminaire is often dictated by the lifespan of its' driver. Installer also have to consider storage spaces and cater sufficient wires/cables/conduits for the LED drivers for future easy maintenance. 

1. Why can't we just install the LED light source as it is and disregard this electronic driver thing totally?

2. Can lighting be just a one step and one item process? Being low voltage device; the LED lighting source itself is generally quite safe.

With the  current available technology, some top tier manufactures have begun to integrate an AC module or a little black chip on the LED lightings' PCB itself. This eliminate the need for an external driver. Well, if the lighting fails after years of usage, we just change it as it is. Isn't this much simpler?

As we continue to sell LED lights with drivers in Singapore and across the world, we are also exploring and working with partners on direct AC operated LED lightings. Stay tune for more with us as we bring on more research and development in this area!

Some key developers and my references in this field;

1. http://americanbrightled.com/

2. http://www.seoulsemicon.com/AcrichNewWave/Acrich3%20IC_Rev3.pdf