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17 days agoAsked cgpt to compare lasers to microwave for data transmission; take with a grain of salt, but seems transfer rate especially isn’t comparable.
🔄 Comparison: Laser vs Microwave Data Transmission
📋 Comparison Table
| Feature | Laser Transmission (e.g., Taara) | Microwave Transmission |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | Free-space optical (light, like a fiber-optic cable without fiber) | Radio/microwave frequencies (GHz range) |
| Wavelength | ~780–1600 nm (near-infrared) | ~1–100 GHz |
| Typical Data Rate | 10–100 Gbps (Taara targets ~20 Gbps and higher) | 100 Mbps – 1 Gbps (modern line-of-sight microwave) |
| Max Practical Range | ~10–20 km, highly sensitive to weather | ~30–50 km, more tolerant of weather |
| Line-of-Sight Requirement | Yes, with tight beam alignment needed | Yes, but more forgiving alignment |
| Weather Sensitivity | High — fog, rain, dust degrade performance | Moderate — heavy rain can attenuate signal |
| Latency | Low | Low |
| Power Usage | Lower power for same data rate | Slightly higher power use |
| Security | High — narrow beam, hard to intercept | Moderate — wider beam, easier to jam or intercept |
| Deployment | Harder — requires precision mounting and stability | Easier — flexible mounting, ruggedized equipment |
| Cost | Higher upfront (optical gear, alignment systems) | Lower per-unit, mature market |
| Use Cases | High-throughput backhaul (rural, terrain-constrained areas) | Medium-throughput links, often as telco backbone |
📌 Key Insights
- Bandwidth: Lasers have a much higher data capacity, similar to fiber optics. Microwave is far more limited in throughput.
- Range: Microwave wins in raw distance, particularly in less-than-ideal weather. Lasers struggle with any visibility obstruction.
- Stability: Lasers require precision alignment and environmental stability (wind, vibration can disrupt link). Microwaves are more forgiving.
- Security: Lasers are harder to intercept due to their tight beams. Microwaves, being broader, are more vulnerable to eavesdropping and interference.
🧠 When to Use What
Use Laser Links (e.g., Taara) when:
- You need fiber-like throughput without laying fiber
- The link is short to medium range (under 20 km)
- You can ensure clear line-of-sight and good weather conditions
- You prioritize security and low interference
Use Microwave Transmission when:
- You need a reliable, moderate-speed link over 30–50 km
- Operating in all weather conditions is a must
- You want easier setup with more flexibility in alignment
- Budget constraints are tighter
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