Optical Communications
Chris Long gave a presentation at GippsTech and this is what spurred some local amateurs to start some experimentation with these amazing devices (Luxeons). The pictures and sound bites were recorded with a Nokia Mobile phone so aren't of the best quality but it gives some idea of what has been done so far. The stations active here in Gippsland are, VK3WRE Ralph who built and designed the TX/RX systems, VK3CJK Chris and myself VK3TDV (VK3ALZ) Michael.
TX/RX system running 1 watt "no name" Led
Another view of the TX/RX system
Here's the back with the Transmitter at the top and receiver at the bottom
Prototype TX with 1 watt "no name" led
The transmitter from about 1km
QSO 9-11-2005
Early on the 9-11-2005 (01:00 to be exact) VK3WRE Ralph and myself VK3TDV (VK3ALZ) completed a qso between a location near MT Tassie (QF31EP) 351m and Tyers Lookout (QF31FU) 191m in the Latrobe Valley. This is a distance of approximately 22.45km. At peaks the signals were "loud". The current system is running 3W Luxeon's. A recording is available by clicking the link below.
The transmitter, dam those Luxeon's are bright!
The transmitter again and with the lights of Yallourn W power station just to the left