Nanophotonics and Detectors

University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/nanophotonics-detectors

Introduction

### Course Review: Nanophotonics and Detectors on Coursera Nanophotonics is a burgeoning field that bridges the worlds of nanotechnology and photonics, creating novel devices that leverage the unique properties of light at the nanoscale. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of this exciting area, Coursera’s **Nanophotonics and Detectors** course is a compelling option. Not only can this course be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree (ECEA 5606), but it also caters to professionals and enthusiasts eager to expand their knowledge in optical technologies. #### Course Overview The **Nanophotonics and Detectors** course dives deep into the principles and applications of nanophotonic light-emitting devices and optical detectors. From metal-semiconductor structures to photomultiplier tubes, participants will explore a wide array of technologies fundamental to the field of photonics. The course is structured to challenge students through weekly problem sets designed to apply the theoretical principles covered. #### Syllabus Breakdown The course is segmented into modules, each focusing on different pivotal topics: 1. **Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs)**: This initial module introduces the groundbreaking design of quantum cascade lasers, utilizing intersub-band transitions. Students will learn the mechanisms behind long-wavelength laser generation and gain insights into intraband transition lasers operating with low-dimensional structures. 2. **Confined Photons**: Understanding how to confine photons parallels electron confinement, presenting opportunities to fine-tune emission modes and enhance laser performance. This topic is a favorite for many participants and forms a crucial foundation for further studies in laser technology. 3. **Photonic Detection**: This module delves into photonic detection principles and key performance metrics such as noise equivalent power and detectivity. A comprehensive understanding of these concepts is essential for anyone aspiring to work in photonics. 4. **Metal Insulator Semiconductor Structures**: Here, students learn about the basics of metal-insulator-semiconductor device operation, guiding principles, advantages, and associated challenges. The knowledge gained is particularly significant when exploring charge-coupled devices (CCDs). 5. **Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) and Photoconductors**: Focusing on detection technologies, this unit examines CCDs and photoconductors, providing practical insights into their applications within photonic systems. 6. **P/N Junctions and Avalanche Photodiodes (APDs)**: The final module covers the essential technology surrounding p-n junctions used in photodiodes and APDs, examining their applications in diverse fields such as microscopy and LIDAR systems. #### Why You Should Take This Course - **Expert Instruction**: The course is structured and delivered by experienced educators and researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder, giving students access to expert knowledge. - **Application-Oriented Learning**: With a strong emphasis on application-based problem sets, students can bridge the gap between theory and practice effectively. - **Credit Opportunity**: For those pursuing advanced degrees, the ability to take this course for academic credit as part of a Master's program adds substantial value. - **Networking and Resources**: Engaging with peers and instructors creates opportunities for discussion, collaboration, and access to additional resources in the field. #### Final Recommendation If you're a student, researcher, or industry professional looking to enhance your expertise in nanophotonics, **Nanophotonics and Detectors** on Coursera is a highly recommended course. It effectively combines comprehensive theoretical foundations with practical applications, equipping you with the necessary tools to excel in this dynamic field. Whether you are interested in laser technology, photonic detection, or the mechanisms behind advanced optical devices, this course promises to enrich your knowledge and advance your career. Don't miss the chance to explore the fascinating interplay of light and nanostructures while gaining academic credit!

Syllabus

Quantum Cascade Lasers

The course covers the basics of nanophotonic light emitting devices and optical detectors, including metal semiconductor, metal semiconductor insulator, and pn junctions, photoconductors, avalanche photodiodes and photomultiplier tubes. Low dimensional structures enable an entirely new class of devices. Join me on a journey to understand how this happens and explore powerful examples of successful technologies such as the quantum cascade laser.Module 1 will cover the quantum cascade laser, a laser design based on intersub-band transitions, that enables very long wavelength lasers. It will also talk about lasers that operate on intraband transitions, using low dimensional structures, which enable further control over carrier concentrations.

Confined photons

In this unit, we will learn how to confine photons just as we do with electrons. This gives us power over the allowed modes of emission, allowing us to enhance the performance of lasers as well as develop 'threshold-less' lasers. I hope you enjoy this exciting topic as much as I do.

photonic detection

In this module, you will learn about the basics of detection and the key performance metrics that are used to evaluate detectors including noise equivalent power and detectivity. This lays the building blocks for fundamental understanding, design, and use of different photonic detection technology. This is core information that should be in the wheelhouse of any photonics researcher or engineer.

metal insulator semiconductor structures

In this unit, you will learn about the fundamentals of how metal insulator semiconductor devices operate, their advantages and challenges they face. This information is particularly useful for understanding the operation of charge-coupled devices, discussed in the next section.

Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) and Photoconductors

In this module, you will learn about two powerful detection technologies: charge coupled devices (CCDs) based on metal insulator semiconductor structures and photoconductors. These technologies are very useful for photonic systems.

P/N Junctions and Avalanche photodiodes (APDs)

In this module, you will learn about another very important detector technology: p-n junctions. These junctions can be used to be photodiodes as well as avalanche photodiodes. We will learn these important technologies function, with applications ranging from microscopy to light detection and ranging (LIDAR).