PH4272 Photonics & Electro-Optics

This course provides an introduction to fundamental aspects of photonics and electro-optics with an emphasis on devices used in the DoD. General aspects of photodetectors, thermal detectors, light intensifiers, night vision devices, focal plane arrays (CCD, CMOS), fiber optics, electro- and acousto-optical devices are discussed. Light emitting diodes (LED), liquid crystal displays (LCD) are also addressed. The physics behind the devices are explained through the development of mathematical models to support an understanding of the specifications, figures-of-merit, noise sources, limitations, and how they fit into the applications.

Prerequisite

PH3292 and PH3655, or permission of instructor.

Lecture Hours

4

Lab Hours

1

Course Learning Outcomes

• Understand the physical phenomena of light and matter interactions.
• Understand the main aspects photon detection.
• Understand the main aspects thermal detection.
• Predict the main figures-of-merit of different types of photodetectors.
• Predict noise and physical limits in different types of photodetectors.
• Understand the main characteristics and figures of performance of focal plane arrays.
• Understand the physical phenomenon of light intensifiers.
• Discuss the difference between light intensifiers and infrared detectors.
• Understand the common mechanisms to modulate and polarize light.
• Understand the physical phenomena of light guidance.
• Predict and classify the most impacting limitations of optical fibers.
• Understand how LED and LCD work.