A Real-Time MEMS Mirror Based Beam Steering and Tracking System for Optical Wireless Communication

Beam steering using high-speed micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) mirrors can support mobility between optical wireless communication (OWC) terminals. However, optimization is necessary to enhance the alignment accuracy and reduce the response time. In this study, we design a real-time MEMS-based tracking system and investigate different scanning patterns to achieve satisfactory tracking performance. We propose a pattern-based scanning technique that employs non-repetitive fast scanning to significantly reduce the tracking latency without compromising detection efficiency. The system is further evaluated in terms of bit error rate (BER) performance and alignment error under various motion conditions. Experimental results demonstrate that the tracking system can effectively maintain reliable communication links in diverse scenarios. The proposed system achieves a data rate of 31.25 Mbps at a maximum moving speed of 1 m/s, with an average BER below the forward error correction limit within a 10-meter range.