Leveraging InGaN solar cells for visible light communication reception

Abstract

Solar cells are increasingly being utilised for both energy harvesting and reception in free-space optical (FSO) communication networks. The authors focus on the implementation of a mid-band p-In_0.01Ga_0.99 N/p-In_0.5Ga_0.5 N/n-In_0.5Ga_0.5 N (PPN) solar cell, boasting an impressive 26.36% conversion efficiency (under 1.5AM conditions) as a receiver within an indoor FSO communication network. Employing a solar cell with dimensions of 1 mm in length and width, the FSO system underwent simulation using Optisystm software, while the solar cell's behaviour was simulated using SCAPS-1D. The received power from the solar cell was then compared to that of four commercially available avalanche photodiode (APD) receivers. Exploring incident wavelengths spanning 400–700 nm within the visible spectrum, across transmission distances of 5, 10, 15, and 20 m, the study presented current-voltage (IV) and power-voltage curves. Notably, the InGaN solar cell exhibited superior electrical power output compared to all commercial APDs. In conclusion, the findings underscore that augmenting received power has the potential to enhance FSO network quality and support extended transmission distances.