Study on Scattering Models for UWOC Channel Using Monte Carlo Simulation

Abstract

Under-water wireless optical communication (UOWC) is becoming a transpiring technology for short transmission ranges due to low latency, high bandwidth. As a result, channel modeling for UOWC is becoming critical. In this study, UOWC channel is modeled by tracing photons conveyance in underwater environment. The current work seeks to enlist the phase function as a significant factor in channel characteristics. In this study, UOWC channel characteristics are examined by employing a numerical simulation of the Monte-Carlo process and considering chlorophyll concentration as an input factor, with reference to Petzold’s data. The effect of the angular shape of the phase function on the channel characteristics is evaluated by means of studying different models of photon scattering, specifically, One Term Henyey-Greenstein (OTHG) model, Two Term Henyey-Greenstein (TTHG) model, Fournier-Forand phase function and the Petzold’s measured phase function. Simulation results established critical need of employing an accurate phase function for finding new direction of photon after scattering. It is revealed that considering extinction coefficient for estimation of power loss as by Beer’s law overestimates the path loss, as a consequence in turbid water condition communication ranges reduces.