LIGHTING | LIFI INFRARED SHIFT A new standard covering the use of infrared in LiFi communication catapults the technology into mainstream relevance a move that could redefine data communication in built environments, says LiFi.cos Jeroen van Gils LiFi modulates light intensity to transmit data via lighting systems T he recent ratification of the IEEE 802.11bb standard heralds a new era in the field of secure, reliable, high-speed wireless communication. Unlike its predecessors, this cutting-edge standard uses infrared light for data transmission (LiFi), moving away from visible light and making it a compelling companion to existing Wi-Fi systems. Hailed by experts in the industry as a turning point for optical wireless communication, this change in medium offers a series of unprecedented advantages: high data speeds, aesthetic versatility, and the synergistic relationship with existing Wi-Fi networks. For stakeholders in sensitive environments such as healthcare and financial sectors, the standards focus on security and bandwidth cannot be overstated. It means that construction, architecture and lighting design are poised for disruption. Why infrared light is a paradigm shift The transition to infrared light is a calculated and transformative move. Its facility for faster data transmission enables LiFi to accommodate more complex and data-heavy tasks seamlessly. In addition, infrared (IR) light, unlike visible light, is invisible to the human eye, making it significantly more versatile for various applications, including those where aesthetic integrity is vital. This characteristic is crucial in applications where the appearance and quality of lighting are important for instance, in museums, art galleries, or high-end retail environments. In contrast, visible light-based LiFi might compromise the visual aesthetic because visible light would have to be switched on to transmit data. The arrival of this standard has a range of implications for smart buildings. Lighting fixtures will soon serve a dual purpose: providing illumination and acting as data-transmission hubs. This development allows for the integration of IR emitters, which can be retrofitted into existing lighting systems. Consequently, the typically high costs associated with adopting new technologies could be reduced markedly, as built environments can adapt existing infrastructure to meet these new needs. Moreover, the standard serves as a crucial reference point for vendors, ensuring the creation of globally standardised and interoperable products. Such standardisation is a milestone that could expedite the integration of LiFi across different built environments, from commercial spaces to residential buildings. Transforming communication Until recently, the primary means of transmission within smart buildings rested on Wi-Fi and wired connections. However, in situations where Wi-Fi signals are weak or disrupted because of structural barriers, LiFi can offer a reliable, secure alternative. This development is particularly relevant in settings that handle sensitive or confidential information, such as governmental buildings or healthcare facilities, where additional layers of security are necessary. The IEEE 802.11bb standard furnishes professionals in the construction and design 32 January 2024 www.cibsejournal.com CIBSE Jan 24 pp32-33 Lifi Standard.indd 32 21/12/2023 15:56