Optical Serial Communication between Arduino Microcontrollers Using Light Transmission and Reception

Paper ID: EIJTEM_2025_12_4_210-214

Author's Name: Rayapati Kavyasri, Dr. Arempula Sreenivasa Rao

Volume: 12

Issue: 4

Year: 2025

Page No: 210-214

Abstract:

This project demonstrates a low-cost optical serial communication system that uses light as a medium for wireless data transmission between two Arduino microcontrollers. A computer transmits serial data to the first Arduino, which modulates the signal and drives a high-power LED or laser through a MOSFET driver circuit. The emitted optical signal is detected by a light receiver module—comprising a photodiode or phototransistor with an amplifier—which converts it back into an electrical signal for the receiving Arduino. The received message is decoded and displayed on a 16×2 LCD module, while an adjustable potentiometer enables sensitivity calibration to compensate for varying ambient light conditions. The setup provides a simple, cost-effective, and educational alternative to traditional RF or Bluetooth-based communication systems, demonstrating the principles of line-of-sight optical data transfer, modulation, and serial interfacing. This system can be extended to secure short-range data transmission, robotic signaling, or optical telemetry applications in embedded systems and educational environments.

Keywords: Arduino, Optical Communication, Serial Interface, Photodiode, LED Transmitter, MOSFET Driver, LCD Display, Light Receiver, Embedded Systems, Wireless Data Transfer

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