Abstract

The optimum detection threshold in an on–off binary optical communications system operating in the presence of atmospheric turbulence has been investigated assuming a Poisson detection process and log normal scintillation. The dependence of the probability of bit error on log amplitude variance and received signal strength has been analyzed, and semi-emperical relationships to predict the optimum detection threshold have been derived. On the basis of this analysis, a piecewise linear model for an adaptive threshold detection system is presented. The bit error probabilities for nonoptimum threshold detection systems have also been investigated.

© 1975 Optical Society of America

The Effect of Atmospheric Scintillation on an Optical Data Channel–Laser Radar and Binary Communications

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