The increasing demand for high-speed and reliable wireless communication has pushed the limitations of conventional radio frequency (RF) systems, particularly in terms of bandwidth scarcity, interference, and spectrum congestion. To overcome these challenges, this paper presents the design and implementation of a hybrid communication system that integrates Free Space Optics (FSO) with 5G New Radio (NR) technology for high-capacity data transmission. The proposed system utilizes optical transmission as the primary communication medium, leveraging its vast unlicensed spectrum and high data rate capabilities, while antenna-based 5G NR communication ensures reliable reception and continuity of service. In this approach, data signals are modulated onto an optical carrier and transmitted through a line-of-sight FSO link. At the receiver side, the optical signals are converted into electrical signals and processed through antenna-based RF modules for efficient decoding and distribution. A hybrid link management mechanism is incorporated to maintain communication stability under varying environmental conditions such as fog, rain, and physical obstructions, where the RF link acts as a fallback channel. The system demonstrates improved spectral efficiency, reduced latency, and enhanced transmission capacity compared to traditional RF-only systems. This work highlights the potential of FSO–5G NR convergence as a scalable and efficient solution for next-generation wireless communication networks.

This paper presented a hybrid FSO–5G NR communication system designed to achieve high-capacity, low-latency, and reliable wireless data transmission. The proposed framework utilizes Free Space Optics (FSO) as the primary transmission medium, supported by antenna-based 5G NR communication to ensure continuous connectivity under varying environmental conditions. Experimental evaluation demonstrates that the system achieves low bit error rates, stable signal-to-noise ratios, and high detection accuracy across different transmission distances, confirming its effectiveness for high-speed communication. The latency analysis indicates near real-time data delivery, making the system suitable for applications requiring fast and efficient communication. Furthermore, the use of optical transmission eliminates common RF-related issues such as spectrum congestion and electromagnetic interference, while enhancing communication security through directional signal propagation. The integration of FSO with 5G NR provides a scalable and robust solution for next-generation wireless networks. Future work can focus on extending communication range through multi-hop FSO links, implementing adaptive modulation techniques to handle dynamic environmental conditions, and incorporating intelligent resource management for optimized hybrid link performance.

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