Li-Fi TinySpot: Compact, Ultra-Low-Power Optical Data Link

Fraunhofer IPMS presents Li-Fi TinySpot, a miniaturized, energy-efficient optical transceiver for wireless data communication in applications with limited power supply, such as sensors, wearables, and embedded devices. The transceiver supports bidirectional full-duplex communication at data rates of up to 20 Mbps over distances from a few centimeters to several meters. Its compact form factor, low power consumption and UART and SPI interfaces facilitate integration into space-constrained systems such as Health and Usage Monitoring Systems and support the modernization of legacy IrDA interfaces.

Across industries, devices are becoming smaller, more mobile and energy‑constrained, while still requiring reliable, interference‑free data links. Conventional wired and radio- frequency-based interfaces often struggle with tight installation spaces, EMI‑critical environments and limited battery capacity. Li‑Fi TinySpot addresses these challenges with an ultra‑low power, miniaturized optical transceiver that can be integrated into sensors, wearables and compact embedded systems. This enables manufacturers to extend device runtime, simplify design and maintain stable data transfer under demanding industrial conditions.

Low power consumption and a space-saving design
• Ultra-Low Power Consumption: With a power consumption as low as 5 mW, Li-Fi TinySpot extends battery runtime and reduces operating costs in devices where every milliwatt counts.
• Compact Design: Measuring just 15 mm × 21 mm × 3.3 mm and weighing only 1 g, Li-Fi TinySpot supports compact and densely integrated designs for sensors, handheld devices and wearables.
• Flexible Operating Range: Depending on the configured transmit power and field of view, the system supports distances ranging from a few centimeters to several meters.
• Safe Operation: Class 1 eye safety enables operation without additional protective measures.
• Immunity to Electromagnetic Interference: Since Li-Fi uses light instead of radio waves and does not require long wired electrical signal connections, the technology is suitable for EMC-critical environments.
• Easy Integration: Standard interfaces such as UART and SPI simplify integration into microcontroller- and FPGA-based systems.
• Low Latency: A low transmission latency of 170 ns supports responsive data exchange in embedded control and sensor applications.
• IrDA Compatibility: Support for SIR, FIR, and VFIR facilitates the modernization of existing infrared interfaces without introducing radio communication.

This makes Li Fi TinySpot particularly attractive for battery-powered sensor systems designed for extended operating lifetimes, as well as for embedded controllers and detachable modules that require reliable contactless communication. Its low weight of only 1 g facilitates integration into moving, rotating or interchangeable components. The transceiver can be mounted directly on printed circuit boards or integrated into miniature modules and sealed housings without bulky optics or complex mechanical assemblies.