FPGA-based adaptive rate-reduced visible light Ethernet communication system

Visible light communication (VLC) integrates with Ethernet technology as a next-generation wireless access solution for the "last mile," offering vast potential for short-range indoor communications. This paper designs a field programmable gate array (FPGA) based visible light Ethernet communication system that converts Ethernet signals into visible light signals. The system dynamically reduces the signal rate to maintain network efficiency through functional modules, including network interface design, flow control, rate adaptation with a peak rate of 100 Mbps, and VLC transmission/reception control logic. Simulation and experimental results show that the system can support Ethernet connections at rates below 100 Mbps and effectively adapts to deteriorating optical channel conditions, ensuring stable communication in real-world environments.