Course detail

Photonics

FSI-RFO-A Acad. year: 2023/2024 Winter semester

The course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of photonics. The topics covered are the following:  Electromagnetic optics,  interaction of light with matter. Theory of optical waveguides. Modulation and switching of optical fields, nonlinear optics. Periodic media and photonic crystals.

Language of instruction

English

Number of ECTS credits

5

Entry knowledge

Knowledge of general physics and optics at the basic undergaruate level. 

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Course-unit credit is conditional on student's activity in the seminars.
Examination: the grade will reflect the performance on seminar problems and two tests (midterm, final).


Aims

The objective of the course is to present a basic overview of photonics including the underlying principles and some current trends.


Competences: Basic knowledge of photonics, understanding of design and function of optical devices such as waveguides, optical fibres, optical modulators and grating based devices. 

The study programmes with the given course

Programme N-PMO-P: Precise Mechanics and Optics, Master's, compulsory

Type of course unit

 

Lecture

26 hours, optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

Syllabus


  1. Electromagnetic Fields and Waves.

  2. Interaction of Light with Matter.

  3. Waves in Optical Waveguides and Fibers.

  4. Coupled Mode Theory. Coupling Between Waveguides. Waveguide Input and Output Couplers

  5. Modulation of Laser Beams: Electro-optic Modulators, Liquid Crystals, Acousto-optic Modulators, Magneto-optic Modulators

  6. Nonlinear Optics.

  7. Periodic Media and Photonic Crystals.

  8. Selected Applications and Current Trends


Exercise

13 hours, compulsory

Teacher / Lecturer

Syllabus

Seminars include practical problems related to the course. Moreover students will visit a lab to see simple guided-wave structures and photonic sensors.