Content and teaching | Assessment | Availability

Module content and teaching

Principal aims

To provide an introduction to the physical principles upon which the laser and a number of other optoelectronic devices are based. To describe a number of different types of laser, second harmonic generation using lasers, modulators (both electro-opto and acousto-optic) and detectors such as the photodiode, avalanche photodiode and photomultiplier. To describe the properties of optical fibres and the likely requirements of an optical communication system.

Principal learning outcomes

At the end of the module you should; understand the essential requirements for laser action in a material and be able to describe different types of laser; be able to describe an optical modulator; be able to describe light detectors such as the photodiode, avalanche photodiode and photomultiplier and be aware of their relative merits; be able to describe optical fibres and to discuss which are the important parameters of these in an optical communications system.

Timetabled teaching activities

15 Lectures

Departmental link

http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/physics/teach/syllabi/year3/px370

Other essential notes

Lasers produce coherent light, which can be used to carry information and energy. Semiconductor lasers, in particular, have become very important in the field of communication. This module covers the basic physics of laser action in the various types of laser and describes their applications in optoelectronics.

Module assessment

Assessment group	Assessment name	Percentage
7.5 CATS (Module code: PX370-7.5)
B (Examination only)	1.5 hr exam (Summer) Optoelectronics and Laser Physics	100%
VA (Visiting students only)	100% assessment visiting/exchange PART-YEAR ONLY	100%

Module availability

This module is available on the following courses:

Core

N/A

Optional Core

N/A

Optional

• Undergraduate Physics (BSc) (F300) - Year 3
• Undergraduate Physics (with Intercalated Year) (F301) - Year 4
• Undergraduate Physics (BSc MPhys) (F304) - Year 3
• Undergraduate Mathematics (BSc) (G100) - Year 3
• Undergraduate Mathematics with Intercalated Year (G101) - Year 4
• Undergraduate Mathematics (MMath) (G103) - Year 3
• Undergraduate Mathematics (MMath) (G103) - Year 4
• Undergraduate Master of Mathematics (with Intercalated Year) (G105) - Year 3
• Undergraduate Master of Mathematics (with Intercalated Year) (G105) - Year 4
• Undergraduate Master of Mathematics (with Intercalated Year) (G105) - Year 5
• Undergraduate Mathematics (MMath) with Study in Europe (G106) - Year 4
• Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (with Intercalated Year) (GF14) - Year 4