Certified Protection Professional (CPP) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a limitation of laser communication?

1. Line of sight transmission is necessary

2. Low quality transmission

3. It can be intercepted easily

4. It requires complex devices

The correct answer is: Line of sight transmission is necessary

Line of sight transmission is a fundamental requirement for laser communication systems. This limitation arises because lasers work by sending concentrated beams of light that can only effectively travel when there is a direct visual pathway between the transmitting and receiving devices. If there are any obstructions in this line of sight, such as buildings, trees, or even atmospheric conditions like fog and rain, the signal can be disrupted or completely blocked. This characteristic significantly limits the deployment of laser communication in urban environments or areas with obstacles, requiring careful planning to ensure that the transmission path remains clear. In contrast, the other potential limitations mentioned do not accurately represent the primary challenges of laser communication. For instance, laser communication is known for its ability to provide high-quality transmission and data rates when conditions are optimal. While it may require sophisticated devices for both transmitting and receiving signals, this complexity does not overshadow the critical need for unobstructed paths. Additionally, although any communication system can be vulnerable to interception, laser communication does not inherently have higher interception risks compared to other media, particularly when encryption measures are applied.