MTUSI: Receiving module for the underwater wireless optical communication line

2022: Prototype of domestic receiving module created

Mikhail Fedyuk, a 2nd year master's student at MTUSI, created a prototype of a domestic receiving module for an underwater wireless optical communication line. The development is aimed at import substitution of technological equipment and practical training of students. This was announced by MTUSI on July 19, 2022.

Light radiation incident on the photodetector is converted into an electrical signal, which enters the signal amplification unit. Then the amplified signal is transmitted to the input of telecommunication or measuring equipment for monitoring the signal in the channel.

The problems of a relatively high sensitivity threshold and a high value of dark current noise were solved by installing a cooling system that allows you to lower the temperatures in the zone to minus 4 degrees Celsius.

By placing the Pelte element and photodiode in an isolated chamber, which is isolated from the environment, a stable negative temperature was achieved. In turn, reducing the resistance of the circuit due to the negative temperature in the chamber made it possible to lower the sensitivity threshold, detect weaker signals, reduce the influence of dark current noise, Mikhail explained.

A prototype with a cooling system has not previously been used in the interests of developing underwater wireless optical communication. In the future, Mikhail plans to improve the development to increase sensitivity and reduce the level of noise in the scheme, which will lead to an increase in the possible distance for data transmission.