Prelims 2020

Q. With reference to Visible Light Communication (VLC) technology, which of the following statements are correct?

  1. VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780 nm.
  2. VLC is known as long-range optical wireless communication.
  3. VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth.
  4. VLC has no electromagnetic interference.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

Correct Answer – (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

Question from UPSC Prelims 2020 GS Paper

Explanation:

Visible Light Communication (VLC)

Visible Light Communication (VLC) is a data communication variant which uses visible light between 400 and 800 nm. 

1. VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780 nm.

This statement is accurate because the typical range for VLC is between 400 and 800 nm, which falls within the visible spectrum. However, it’s close to the actual range VLC operates in, so the intent behind the statement seems to align with VLC’s operational wavelengths.

2. VLC is known as long-range optical wireless communication.

This statement is incorrect. VLC is typically used for short-range communication applications. It is not known for long-range capabilities, especially when compared to other optical wireless communications like Free Space Optics (FSO), which can cover much longer distances.

3. VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth.

This statement is correct. VLC can indeed transmit data at higher speeds compared to Bluetooth. VLC technology has the potential to achieve data rates in the range of gigabits per second (Gbps), which is significantly higher than what current Bluetooth technology can offer.

4. VLC has no electromagnetic interference.

This statement is generally considered correct. One of the advantages of VLC is that it does not suffer from electromagnetic interference in the same way that radio-based communication systems do. This makes VLC particularly useful in environments where electromagnetic interference is a concern, such as in hospitals or on airplanes.

Given the analysis above, the correct answer would be:

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

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