Enhancements for Lossy Optical Networks (EFLON) Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Topic No.: N08-072 Topic Title: Enhancements for Lossy Optical Networks (EFLON) Proposal No.: N081-072-0558 Firm: Architecture Technology Corporation 9971 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344 Contact: Jordan Bonney Phone: (952) 829-5864 Web Site: www.atcorp.com Abstract: The US Navy has identified a need for optimized coding and protocols for free-space optical links. Such links provide the high bandwidth required by future service oriented networks in maritime and expeditionary environments. However, atmospheric turbulence and attenuation can have a deleterious impact on the performance of IP based communications operating on these networks. Architecture Technology Corporation (ATC) will leverage its extensive experience in network technology to develop Enhancements for Lossy Optical Networks (EFLON). These enhancements will alleviate the performance problems caused by atmospheric phenomenon, such as turbulence. The objective of this effort is to establish the feasibility of EFLON in Phase I. The follow-on Phase II effort will then implement a prototype of EFLON that will be demonstrated in a realistic environment. Benefits: EFLON will be a product that will benefit existing free space optical networks by improving bandwidth and performance. These networks have shown to be a viable alternative to the fiber optics technology in several applications, particularly in urban networks, because the installation cost of a free space optical system is about 20% of a fiber-based system. However, free space optical systems lack the reliability of fiber links. With EFLON, these systems will perform more reliably. Return