US Patent 7965948 Power and data transmitted over a single optical fiber

Transmitting power and data to electronic components using a single optical fiber includes receiving a light power signal via the single fiber optic, converting the power light signal to electrical energy, at least a portion of which may be stored in an energy storage element, and, in response to a pause in the received light power signal, transmitting a light data signal via the single optical fiber, where power used in connection with data transmission is provided by electrical energy stored in the energy storage element. A photovoltaic element may be used to convert the light power signal into electrical energy. The photovoltaic element may be an array of photodiodes or a single photodiode. The energy storage element may be a capacitor. Transmitting a light data signal may be provided by a communication light source.