The data rate was chosen after looking at what modulation frequencies available inexpensive modulatable laser modules could produce. While I realize that the data rate for the laser modulation is beyond most laser pointers ability to produce. It was chosen based more on reliability of transmission than on cost of parts, or ease of hack ability. RoboTag TM is laser tag for autonomous robots to play against each other. There are three contest levels.
Beginner is run on a flat floor with a simple environment with walls and obstacles.
All robots compete for them selves. Intermediate level play adds short walls, openings in walls, and team play. Expert play levels add almost anything goes as far as the robot's environment is concerned. Specification of minimum sensor levels. Specification of minimum abilities to withstand external noise like ambient light from many different types of sources like incandescent lights, sunlight, fluorescent lights, IR distance sensors on robots, etc.