This paper reports on observed preliminary transmission performance of frequency-division multiplexed NTSC video and DS1 channels modulated on to an optical carrier and transmitted over a two-kilometer atmospheric path in New Jersey, USA, with emphasis on measurements made during the fall of 1987. At a distance of two-km, the received laser beam footprint was set at 8 feet in diameter to accommodate temperature related beam wander. The received signal was processed to retrieve the video and data signals. Transmission path fading was monitored using a tone signal over an adjacent parallel path. DS1 bit-error ratio and video signal parameters were monitored according to established standards. Link deployment issues, optical power budgets and preliminary performance results are reported. The Conditions under which system failures were observed are described.

E. McSorley

Papers

Measurements On A 2 Km Broadband Atmospheric Optical Communications Link For Video And Data