Optimizing Indoor Visible Light Communication Systems: A Comparative Analysis of Multi-LED Configurations
Optimizing Indoor Visible Light Communication Systems: A Comparative Analysis of Multi-LED Configurations
Abstract; Visible Light Communication (VLC) utilizes LEDs to transmit data through visible light, offering an alternative
to traditional RF systems. This study develops a model for indoor VLC environments, focusing on key factors such as
illuminance distribution, received power, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in both line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight
(NLOS) conditions. The research examines how different transmitter setups—single, four, and five LED configurations—
affect system performance, with particular attention to the bit error rate (BER) for two modulation schemes: On-Off Keying
(OOK) and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (16-QAM). The findings show that multi-LED setups provide enhanced
reliability, especially in diffuse propagation scenarios common in NLOS environments. Multi-LED configurations deliver
better illuminance distribution and higher SNR, making them suitable for complex indoor environments. However, single-
LED setups offer lower BER at higher SNR levels, demonstrating superior performance for simpler setups where direct
communication paths are available. The study also compares modulation schemes, finding that OOK is more resilient to
noise and achieves lower BER, particularly in single-LED configurations, while 16-QAM offers higher data throughput but
is more susceptible to errors in lower SNR conditions. The trade-offs between wider coverage and increased BER in multi-
LED setups indicate that configuration must be tailored to specific environmental conditions and system goals. This research
contributes to the optimization of VLC systems, suggesting that while multi-LED setups are better suited for complex
environments requiring broader coverage, single-LED configurations are more efficient in simpler scenarios where
minimizing errors is crucial. The study's insights are expected to facilitate the wider adoption of VLC technology,
particularly in secure indoor communication systems where RF signals face challenges like interference and limited
bandwidth.
How to Cite: Sharmina Rahman; Farida Siddiqi Prity; Md. Abdullah Bin Masud (2025). Optimizing Indoor Visible Light
Communication Systems: A Comparative Analysis of Multi-LED Configurations. International Journal of Innovative Science and
Research Technology, 10(4), 3315-3344. https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr1729
Demonstrating SNR Distribution for Diffuse and LOS DebanjanaGhosh et al.[15] developed a Li-Fi
Propagation: transceiver using Arduino for data transmission, highlighting
The study compares the SNR distribution in both diffuse the potential of Li-Fi as a superior alternative to Wi-Fi in
and LOS propagation scenarios. It specifically investigates wireless communication. Khalifeh et al.[16], through
how diffuse propagation, including the transmission of light simulations, emphasized the importance of strategic LED
through white concrete walls, contributes to illuminance, placement in VLC systems, showing that optimal positioning
received power, and SNR at the receiver. This analysis can enhance received power and minimize errors.
provides insights into how VLC systems can maintain high
performance even in complex indoor environments with In another study, Mohammed S.M. Gismalla et al. [17]
obstacles. conducted a multi-variable evaluation of optical attocell
models in VLC systems, analyzing different modulation
Calculating Bit Error Rate: schemes and identifying binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) as
Finally, the research calculates the BER for different the most effective for optimal performance. TabishNiaz et al.
propagation scenarios to assess the reliability of data [18] compared square array and circular LED deployments
III. METHODOLOGY including single, four, and five transmitters, to analyze their
impact on the system. In the third phase, key characteristics
This study aims to develop a comprehensive indoor such as illuminance distribution, received power, Signal-to-
VLC model using LED technology, focusing on analyzing Noise Ratio (SNR) under both Line-of-Sight (LOS) and Non-
illuminance distribution, received power, and SNR to Line-of-Sight (NLOS) conditions, and Bit Error Rate (BER)
understand the impact of different propagation scenarios, for On-Off Keying (OOK) and Quadrature Amplitude
including LOS and diffuse transmission through walls, on bit Modulation (QAM) will be evaluated. The fourth and final
error rate.The proposed study is structured into four distinct phase consists of a comparative analysis of the different
phases. The first phase involves the development of a Visible transmitter configurations based on the evaluated parameters.
Light Communication (VLC) system. The second phase The workflow diagram illustrating these phases is presented
focuses on exploring different transmitter configurations, in Figure 1.
(b) Spatial arrangement of LED transmitters and user receivers within an indoor environment
Fig 2 Proposed VLC System [21]
Reflectivity 0.78
2 max
Half intensity radiation angle 1200
Cut-off frequency f0 10GHz
Transmitter Configuration Figure 3(c) shows the configuration with five transmitters,
This study employed three different transmitter combining the central transmitter from the single setup with
configurations within the VLC system: single, four, and five the four transmitters from the second configuration. The
transmitters, as depicted in Figure 3. Figure 3(a) illustrates transmitters are positioned at coordinates (1.25, 1.25), (3.75,
the setup with a single transmitter positioned at the center of 1.25), (2.5, 2.5), (1.25, 3.75), and (3.75, 3.75). This
the area (coordinates 2.5, 2.5). This configuration represents configuration aims to enhance the uniformity and intensity of
the simplest form of deployment, focusing the light source the illumination across the area by integrating a central light
centrally. In Figure 3(b), four transmitters are arranged source with peripheral ones. These configurations are critical
symmetrically at the corners of the area, with coordinates in evaluating the impact of different transmitter placements
(1.25, 1.25), (3.75, 1.25), (1.25, 3.75), and (3.75, 3.75). This on the VLC system’s performance, particularly in terms of
arrangement is designed to provide more uniform coverage illuminance distribution, received power, and signal quality
across the entire area by spreading out the light sources. across the coverage area.
Fig 3 The Position of Leds When (A) Single Transmitter (B) Four Transmitter (C)Five Transmitter
Evaluation of Different Characteristics Radiance intensity (I) is the radiant flux (Φ) divided by
This study evaluates various characteristics of the VLC the elementary solid angle (Ω):
system, including illuminance distribution, received power,
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) under both Line-of-Sight (LOS) I = dΦ / dΩ (1)
and Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) conditions, and Bit Error
Rate (BER) for different modulation schemes—On-Off Irradiance (E) is the radiant flux incident on the
Keying (OOK) and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation elementary receiving area (A):
(QAM). These evaluations are conducted across different
transmitter configurations, specifically with single, four, and E = dΦ / dA (2)
five LED transmitters. This section provides a brief overview
of these characteristics and their significance in assessing the According to the relations above, the elementary radiant
performance and reliability of the proposed VLC system. flux is given by:
Consider n LEDs placed at points (x₁, y₁), (x₂, y₂), ..., φ is the angle of incidence at the receiver.
(xn, yn), all on the same level z = 0. Each LED's intensity will
contribute to the total irradiance of the LED system at a point R is the distance between the LED and the receiver.
(x, y) on the receiving surface:
I_illum,total represents the total illuminance at the point (x,y)
E total = Σ(Iᵢ * cos(φᵢ) / Rᵢ²) (7) on the receiving surface, considering contributions from all n
LEDs.
To simplify the model, an intensity Lambert pattern will
be considered: Table 3 presents the parameters used for calculating the
illuminance pattern in the study. The table outlines the
Iᵢ = I₀ * cosᵐ(θᵢ) (8) configurations for different numbers of LEDs, their luminous
intensities, and the positions of the transmitters in the VLC
where I₀ is the maximum intensity, m is the Lambertian system.
order, and θᵢ is the angle between the normal to the surface
and the line-of-sight. The viewing angle φᵢ is related to the One LED Configuration
line-of-sight: Luminous Intensity: The luminous intensity for this
single LED setup is 1200 candela (w/sr).
cos(φᵢ) = |z| / Rᵢ (9)
Transmitter Position: The LED is positioned centrally at
Given Rᵢ = √((x - xᵢ)² + (y - yᵢ)² + z²), and assuming z = coordinates [2.5, 2.5], which likely represents the center of
0 and cos(φᵢ) = z/Rᵢ, it results that cos(φᵢ) = z and: the room or area being analyzed.
I_illum,total = Σ(P_t,i * (m + 1) * cosᵐ(θᵢ) * cos(φᵢ) / (2π Transmitter Positions: The LEDs are positioned at
Rᵢ²)) (12) [1.25, 3.75], [3.75, 3.75], [1.25, 1.25], [3.75, 1.25], and [2.5,
2.5]. This configuration combines the positions from the four
Here: LED setup with an additional central LED, which is located
at [2.5, 2.5]. This setup is likely designed to provide even
P_t is the transmitted optical power from the LED. better coverage by filling in any potential gaps in illuminance
that might occur with just four LEDs.
Receive Power factors including the characteristics of the LED source, the
The received power at the photodetector in a Visible geometry of the system, and the properties of the
Light Communication (VLC) system, particularly in a direct photodetector and its associated components. Understanding
Line-of-Sight (LOS) scenario, is a critical factor in this equation is critical for designing and optimizing VLC
determining the efficiency and reliability of the systems, as it allows engineers to predict the performance of
communication link. This power is influenced by various the system under various conditions, such as changes in
Pt is the transmitted optical power from the LED. SNRo = 2 2 PR2 / ( N 0 B) = 2 2 Pchip
2
| H |2 / N0 B (15)
m is the order of Lambertian emission, which
characterizes the LED beam spread. In a typical VLC environment, the dominant noise
θ is the angle of emission from the LED. contribution is often due to shot noise, which arises from the
φ is the angle of incidence at the receiver. ambient light, such as sunlight entering through windows.
R is the distance between the LED and the receiver. Shot noise is a type of electronic noise that occurs due to the
φmax is the receiver's field of view (FOV). random arrival of photons at the photodiode. Noise power
AR is the effective receiver area. spectral density is, representing the power per unit bandwidth
Ts(φ) is the gain of the optical filter (if present). (W/Hz)-
g(φ) is the concentrator gain.
N0 = 2q P ambient (16)
This relationship between received power and
illuminance is essential for designing efficient VLC systems.
By understanding and controlling each of the factors in the q is the elementary charge of an electron, approximately
equation, engineers can optimize the placement of LEDs and 1.602 x 10-19 coulombs.
photodetectors, select appropriate photodetector
characteristics, and manage the lighting environment to P ambient is the ambient optical power incident on the
ensure reliable communication. The received power refers to photodiode, primarily due to sunlight.
the amount of optical power detected by a photodetector after
For worst-case noise scenarios, we consider bright sky
light from an LED source has traveled through the
irradiance, which could be as high as 5.8 W/(nm·m²) across
environment and possibly undergone reflections, scattering,
and attenuation. The received power is typically measured in the visible spectrum. This ambient light contributes
watts (W). For example, in a scenario where path loss is significantly to the shot noise experienced by the photodiode
significant (e.g., due to a large distance or obstructed line-of-
sight), designers might choose a photodetector with higher Signal to Noise Ratio determinationfor diffuse
responsivity or increase the LED's luminous output to propagation (NLOS)
maintain sufficient received power. Conversely, in well-lit We assume that all LEDs are driven by the same
environment with minimal path loss, a lower (electrical) signal. Then, in a flat channel, the received optical
responsivityphotodetector might suffice- signal power is the sum of powers coming from all light
emitting chips-
Received power can be related to illuminance by –
PR |H i (0) | PT ,i PChip | H | (17)
R p = 2* E 2
r * ( Ar ) 2
(14)
i
exp( j 2 f DIFF ) Bit Error Rate in Optical On-Off Keying Modulation for
DIFF (18) VLC Systems
1 j( f / f0 ) In Optical On-Off Keying modulation for Visible Light
Communication (VLC) systems, the Bit Error Rate (BER)
where LOS and DIFF represent the channel gain for can be expressed using the error function (erf), which
accounts for the noise and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the
the LOS and diffuse signal; respectively- LOS [s] and system. For OOK modulation, assuming additive white
Gaussian noise (AWGN), the BER is given by:
DIFF [s] are the corresponding signal delays and f0 [Hz]
1 √𝑆𝑁𝑅
the cut-off (3-db) frequency of the purely diffuse channel.The BER = . erfc( )
2 √2
LOS gain from the ith LED chip is given by- (22)
LOS ,i AR (m 1)cosm i cos i / 2 ri2 (19) or equivalently using the error function:
1 √𝑆𝑁𝑅
The Lambert index m depends on the radiation semi- BER = . (1 − erfc ( )) (23)
2 2
angle as
Where:
m= -1/ log2 cos max (20) erfc(x) = 1 - erf(x) is the complementary error function.
SNR is the signal-to-noise ratio at the receiver.
2
Where, AR [ m ] is the effective receiver surface
In OOK, a higher SNR leads to a lower BER, improving
(together with filter and concentrator gain) and the other the communication reliability.This equation provides a direct
variables are introduced here relationship between the BER and the SNR for OOK
modulation in VLC systems under Gaussian noise conditions.
r=distance between transmitter and receiver
= angle of irradiance when light is emitted from Bit Error Rate in Optical QAM Modulation for VLC
transmitter Systems
= angle of incidence when light is incident to receiver The Bit Error Rate is a critical performance metric in
=reflectivity of material=0.78(for white concrete) Visible Light Communication (VLC) systems, particularly
when using Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM)
f =varying frequency schemes. In optical QAM, the BER is influenced by factors
f0 =3-db frequency such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), modulation order, and
the characteristics of the transmission medium. The BER for
a QAM system in VLC can be calculated using the following
DIFF is related to optical path loss by = -10log( equation:
DIFF ). Path loss can be calculated using this relation. BER = 2 * (1 - 1/√M) * Q(√(3 * log2(M) * SNR / (M - 1)))
(24)
For diffuse link the law is-
Comparative Analysis
This study conducts a comparative analysis of different
AR p
DIFF = (21) transmitter configurations based on a comprehensive
ARooM 1 p evaluation of key parameters, including illuminance
distribution, received power, Signal-to-Noise Ratio, and Bit
Error Rate. The analysis focuses on three specific
In indoor VLC systems, light often undergoes multiple
configurations: a single transmitter, four transmitters, and
reflections off walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. The ratio
𝑝 five transmitters. Through this comparative analysis, the
can be relevant when considering the cumulative effect study examines how each configuration impacts the
1−𝑝
of these multiple reflections. For instance, when light is performance of the VLC system in terms of the evaluated
reflected multiple times within a room, the overall parameters.
contribution of reflected light to the received signal can be
estimated using this ratio. It helps in understanding how much
light remains available for communication after successive
reflections. It represents a situation where light is repeatedly
reflected, and the ratio gives insight into how much light
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fig 4 Illuminance pattern for (a) single (b) four (c) Five LED models (3D)
For 4(a) and 5(a) single LED model, the illuminance intensity of 240 W/sr, the illuminance ranges from 150 lux to
ranges from a minimum of 88.89 lux to a maximum of 450 lux. The increase in maximum illuminance beyond 450
approximately 1200 lux, attributable to the use of an LED lux is attributed to the additional central LED, which
lamp with a luminous intensity of 1200 W/sr. In a system with enhances the overall light distribution. As the distance from
four LEDs 4(b) and 5(b), where each LED has a luminous the transmitter increases, the brightness level diminishes,
intensity of 300 W/sr, the illuminance varies between 150 lux leading to a noticeable decrease in illuminance towards the
and 400 lux. The increase in maximum illuminance to edges of the receiver plane. The corners, in particular, exhibit
approximately 400 lux is due to the cumulative effect of light significantly lower illuminance levels compared to the areas
contributions from adjacent sources. In the case of a five- directly aligned with the line-of-sight (LOS) link from the
LED 4(c) and 5(c) system, with each LED having a luminous transmitter.
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fig 5 Illuminance pattern for (a) single (b) four (c) Five LED models (2D)
Received Power 7(a) model, the received power at the center point is above
When designing visible light communication (VLC) 2.5 mW, reaching its maximum value, while the minimum
systems, received power is a critical factor in determining the value is less than 0.5 mW. In contrast, the 6(b) and 7(b) model
system's overall performance, particularly in terms of signal shows that the received power reaches a maximum of 0.9 mW
strength and data transmission reliability. The distribution of at the line-of-sight (LOS) link of the four transmitters, but
received power can vary significantly depending on the decreases to below 0.1 mW at the center of the receiver
arrangement of LED transmitters and optocells within a given surface and the corner edges. This reduction is attributed to
environment. Different configurations, such as single, lower illuminance, resulting in a diminished amount of light
multiple, or arrayed LED setups, influence how light is received in these areas. For the 6(c) and 7(c) plot, the received
distributed and received across the communication area. power at the central position is approximately 1.1 mW, with
Figure 6 and Figure 7 illustrates the received power for the other transmitters showing received power ranging from
different LED configurations (3D and 2D). In the 6(a) and 1 mW to 0.9 mW.
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fig 6 Received Power pattern for (a) single (b) four (c) Five LED models (3D)
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fig 7 Received Power pattern for (a) single (b) four (c) Five LED models (2D)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(a)
(b)
(c)
Signal to Noise Ratio determinationfor diffuse balance between signal coverage and SNR is critical to ensure
propagation (NLOS) effective communication in NLOS VLC systems.
In Visible Light Communication (VLC) systems, the
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) Figure 10 and Figure 11 illustrates the SNR in NLOS
links with diffuse propagation is a critical factor in assessing conditions for different transmitter configurations (3D and
system performance, particularly when direct Line-of-Sight 2D). In these scenarios, the signal strength is typically highest
(LOS) paths are unavailable. Unlike LOS scenarios, where directly beneath the LED chip, where both LOS and diffuse
light travels directly from the transmitter to the receiver, components significantly contribute to the signal. As the
NLOS links rely on light that is reflected or scattered off distance from the LED increases, the SNR decreases,
surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and other obstacles before indicating that signal coverage weakens towards the edges
reaching the receiver. This scattering process can and corners of the room due to increased reliance on diffuse
significantly reduce signal strength, leading to a lower SNR propagation and a reduced LOS component. In Figure 10(a)
compared to LOS links. In NLOS environments with diffuse and Figure 11(a), the SNR reaches its peak value of
propagation, the signal is typically weakened due to multiple approximately 170 dB near the center of the room, where the
reflections, which not only reduce signal strength but also LOS component from the LED chip is strongest and most
introduce additional noise and interference. These factors directly contributes to signal strength. Figure 10(b) and
contribute to a further decline in SNR, making it challenging Figure 11(b) shows an SNR range from approximately 150 to
to maintain strong and reliable communication.To achieve 170 dB, with the highest values centered around 165 dB. The
adequate SNR in these scenarios, it is essential to optimize regions of peak SNR correspond to areas where LOS
the reflective properties of the environment, strategically components from multiple LEDs constructively interfere,
place transmitters and receivers, and apply techniques that resulting in stronger signals. Conversely, the SNR decreases
boost signal strength while minimizing noise. A careful in areas dominated by diffuse propagation or where
destructive interference between signals from different LEDs
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fig 10 SNR pattern for (a) single (b) four (c) Five LED models in NLOS propagation (3D)
(a)
(b)
(c)
Fig 11 SNR pattern for (a) single (b) four (c) Five LED models in NLOS propagation (2D)
Bit Error Rate in Optical QAM Modulation for VLC system. As the SNR increases to medium and high levels
Systems (greater than 10 dB), the performance gap between the
Figure 13 illustrates the BER versus SNR performance configurations narrows significantly. All three setups achieve
for 16-bit QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation), similarly low BERs at higher SNRs, with the five-LED
comparing single-LED and multi-LED (four and five LEDs) configuration eventually converging to the performance of
configurations. The graph reveals distinct trends at different the single-LED setup around 20 dB.Despite the single-LED
SNR levels. At low SNR values (below 10 dB), the single- setup demonstrating better performance at lower SNRs, the
LED configuration outperforms the multi-LED setups by multi-LED configurations (four and five LEDs) offer
achieving a lower BER. This suggests that the four- and five- enhanced system robustness and coverage overall. However,
LED systems are more susceptible to noise at lower SNR this increased robustness comes at the cost of requiring higher
levels, resulting in higher BERs compared to the single-LED SNR to achieve comparable BER performance.
Each LED configuration presents unique advantages While the single LED performs well for general
based on the specific performance metric: coverage and power, particularly at low SNR levels, the five-
LED configuration offers the most robust and reliable
Single LED: performance, especially in challenging environments with
The single LED setup excels in providing a broader NLOS conditions and higher SNR requirements. Therefore,
illuminance pattern and higher received power. It also shows the five-LED setup is the best option for applications
strong SNR performance in Line of Sight (LOS) conditions, prioritizing strong signal quality and consistency over a wide
especially at lower SNR levels, making it suitable for range of conditions.
applications where wider coverage and higher signal strength
are required in direct transmission scenarios. In terms of BER Discussion
performance, for both OOK and QAM modulations, the The results of this study provide valuable insights into
single-LED setup performs better at lower SNR levels (below the performance of different LED configurations in Visible
10 dB), achieving a lower BER compared to the four- and Light Communication systems. The use of multiple LEDs,
five-LED systems. particularly in the four- and five-LED configurations, proved
to be effective in achieving a more uniform illuminance
Four LEDs: distribution across the receiver plane. This is particularly
The four-LED configuration offers more concentrated useful in environments where consistent lighting is critical for
illuminance and consistent received power, though it communication reliability, such as large indoor spaces with
performs slightly worse in LOS SNR compared to the single multiple users or devices. The spread of light in multi-LED
LED. However, it improves significantly in Non-Line of setups ensures that even in non-line-of-sight conditions,
Sight (NLOS) conditions, making it a better choice in sufficient light reaches the receiver, maintaining strong signal
environments with potential signal obstructions or where integrity. However, the increased illuminance in multi-LED
indirect transmission paths are more common. For BER setups comes at the cost of complexity, particularly in
(OOK), the four-LED setup shows a higher BER at low SNR, managing the Signal-to-Noise Ratio and Bit Error Rate. The
but its performance converges closer to the single-LED results show that multi-LED configurations, while enhancing
system as SNR increases. In QAM modulation, the four-LED signal strength and reliability, are more susceptible to
setup follows a similar trend, with higher BER at low SNR interference and noise, especially in lower SNR
but narrowing the gap at medium and high SNR levels. environments. This is evident in the BER performance, where
single-LED configurations outperform multi-LED setups at
Five LEDs: higher SNR levels. In these scenarios, the single-LED system
The five-LED configuration demonstrates the best demonstrates a more consistent BER, suggesting that in
overall performance in terms of maximum SNR in both LOS simpler indoor environments with minimal interference,
and NLOS conditions, particularly at higher SNR levels. single-LED systems may be the optimal choice. When
Although it lags behind the single LED at lower SNR levels, comparing modulation techniques, On-Off Keying shows
it outperforms both the single and four-LED setups in NLOS clear advantages in terms of BER performance, particularly
scenarios, making it ideal for environments that require high in single-LED setups. Its simplicity makes it more robust
robustness and signal reliability. For BER (OOK), the five- against noise, especially in high-SNR conditions. Quadrature
LED system initially shows higher BER at low SNR values Amplitude Modulation, while offering higher data rates,
but outperforms the single LED as SNR rises. In QAM suffers from higher BER at lower SNR levels, particularly in
modulation, the five-LED system converges to the single- diffuse propagation scenarios. This indicates that while QAM
LED performance at around 20 dB SNR, offering better can be beneficial in systems where higher data throughput is
robustness at high SNR levels. required, it may not be suitable for environments with
significant noise or where minimizing errors is critical. The
comparison between line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-
sight (NLOS) conditions further highlights the strengths and