Optical Wireless Link Solutions (OWLS)

The growing demand for high bandwidth, reliable and affordable data communications has major connectivity bottlenecks, notably the ‘last mile’ delivery of broadband to homes and businesses. BT Openreach’s planned upgrades of G.Fast technology and Fibre to the Home (FTTH) will replace existing infrastructure but prices continue to rise with landline rental fees often representing the greatest proportion of consumers' bills on basic broadband tariffs. Even with recent government announcements, consumer demand for services is likely to outstrip supply unless flexible and easily installed alternatives can complement the spread of fibre. The OWLS project has been set up to achieve major price reductions for high broadband and easily installable data links using Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) devices. Low cost infra-red data links are being developed that show the capability to extend the range of existing wireless connectivity directly into homes. Where communication hubs are available, people will be able to buy units for the home and set them up with minimal effort. OWLS development under this programme will establish how early products should be packaged and connected, first for UK opportunities and then for a variety of communities overseas.