[comp.dcom.modems] Visible-wavelength LASER modems?

lairdb@crash.cts.com (Laird P. Broadfield) (06/07/91)

Okay folks, here's an oddball request for ya'.

I'm looking for modems using visible-wavelength lasers as the "physical"
media.  I've got bucketloads of info on high-speed microwave-based
links, but I don't think I've even seen anything laser-based.

Speed can be as low as 2400 baud, range in use probably won't exceed
one mile.  (Yes, I am aware of all the things that can block transmission,
they shouldn't be a consideration for this setup.)  

Alternatively, I suppose I could use regular modems and analog-modulate
the beam to simulate a line, or conceivably I could treat the laser as
a line driver and put a photocell on the other end; either of which
requires a laser with a "modulate" connector.  Anybody can point me
at one of those?

Any and all hints and pointers are appreciated!

--  Laird P. Broadfield                        | Year after year, site after
    UUCP: {ucsd, nosc}!crash!lairdb            | site, and I still can't think
    INET: lairdb@crash.cts.com                 | of a funny enough .sig.