ECE 3134 - Introduction to Optoelectronics (3C)

Fundamental principles of optoelectronics. The concept of photons, spontaneous emission, and stimulated emission. Rate equation analysis of light emitting diodes and lasers. Operation principles and device characteristics of photodetectors and solar cells. Advanced topics such as quantum well and emerging materials

The course teaches the fundamental principles of optoelectronics. It introduces students to key concepts such as photons, absorption, spontaneous emission, and stimulated emission. Optical properties of materials such as semiconductors and dielectrics and their impact on device physics will also be treated. The pn junction will be reviewed in the context of optoelectronics. After taking this course, the students should be able to analyze the performance characteristics of devices such as light emitting diodes, lasers, photodetectors, and solar cells. The skills acquired in this course are required for a wide range of industries in areas such as optical communications, illumination and display, and photovoltaics. This course is also necessary for emerging research areas in nanoscale science and engineering.