Lasers and optical waveguides are important components of optoelectronic and telecommunication systems. In this unit, practical and theoretical aspects of lasers and light propagation in waveguide structures are developed. Fundamental aspects of laser-gain materials including optical transitions and broadening, and the properties of passive optical resonators, form the basis for a study of laser performance in terms of threshold, modes and pulsed operation. Laser safety is also discussed. One assignment is offered in team-work mode, allowing students to research and present a larger-scale topic in the area of laser physics and applications.
In the second half of the unit, the principles of electromagnetic theory are applied to dielectric waveguides including semiconductor structures, optical fibres, 3dB couplers and graded-index structures. Particular emphasis is placed on determining the modes of such systems and the resonance conditions for waveguide modes.
The practical component of the unit provides a valuable preparation for working in the field of optoelectronics, using modern laboratory equipment. Proficiency in practical work is regarded as important, and laboratory experiments involving modulators, laser modes, detectors and detection systems are offered.
Please note that OPTO300 will be last offered in 2008.
