There is provided an optical communication system comprising: a transmitter comprising: a modulator configured to output a digital signal representing information to be transmitted; a biaser configured to output a bias level; a drive level controller configured to output a control signal; a switch electrically connected to the modulator, wherein the switch receives the digital signal and a reference voltage set by the control signal; and at least one light emitting diode (LED) electrically connected to the switch and the biaser. The LED is configured to emit light and pulse at varying power levels between the bias level and the reference voltage. The system further comprises a receiver comprising: a detector configured to receive light emitted by the LED and output a detected signal; and a demodulator configured to receive the detected signal and output demodulated information.