A Comprehensive Review Hybrid Free-Space Optical (FSO) And Radio Frequency (RF) Communication Systems

Radio frequency (RF) and free-space optics (FSO) communications are two important technologies. They can help fix each other’s weaknesses. Hybrid RF/FSO systems combine the high data rates and low latencies offered by FSO with the resilience and vast coverage provided by RF. Therefore, they are suitable for various applications, including mobile networks and satellite communications. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the advancements in hybrid RF/FSO communication systems, with a special emphasis on performance evaluation, system topologies, and optimisation approaches. The basic technologies involved include Alamouti coding, antenna and relay selection, connection adaptation, and security techniques. This survey examines hybrid systems within the context of 5G and future networks with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance system performance.