Over 10 Gbps VLC for long-distance applications using a GaN-based series-biased micro-LED array

By employing a GaN-based series-biased micro-light emitting diode ( $\mu $ LED) array and orthogonal frequency division multiplexing modulation format, a high-speed free-space visible light communication system for long-distance applications has been demonstrated. The blue series-biased $\mu $ LED array, which consists of $3\times 3$ , 20 $\mu \text{m}$ -diameter $\mu $ LED elements, presents promising performance with an optical power and −6dB electrical modulation bandwidth of over 10 mW and 980 MHz, respectively. Record data transmission rates have been successfully achieved at different free-space distances. Within 5 m transmission distances, over 10 Gbps data rates at the forward error correction (FEC) floor of $3.8\times 10^{-3}$ are accomplished. Extending the transmission distances to 20 m, the data rates are maintained at the Gbps level at the FEC floor.