Nanophotonics and Detectors from Coursera

This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5606, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.

Nanophotonics and Detectors Introduction

This course dives into nanophotonic light emitting devices and optical detectors, including metal semiconductors, metal semiconductor insulators, and pn junctions. We will also cover photoconductors, avalanche photodiodes, and photomultiplier tubes. Weekly homework problem sets will challenge you to apply the principles of analysis and design we cover in preparation for real-world problems.

Course Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to…

(1) Use nanophotonic effects (low dimensional structures) to engineer lasers

(2) Apply low dimensional structures to photonic device design

(3) Select and design optical detector for given system and application

What's inside

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).

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops skills in engineering, designing, and selecting photonic detectors

Instructor Juliet Gopinath has published extensively in this field

Taught by a recognized expert in the field of nanophotonics and detectors

Covers advanced topics like quantum cascade lasers and confined photons

Offers a comprehensive study of nanophotonics and detectors

This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree

Reviews summary

Nanophotonics and detectors gets 4 stars

Learners say this course is largely positive, earning an average of 4 out of 5 stars from students. It is known for engaging and high-quality assignments. The only concern mentioned by learners was that the exam questions could be difficult.

Assignments are high quality.

"Content is really good."

"Quality of assignments are also very nice."

Exam questions can be difficult.

"Only one problem is framing of questions is not done properly."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Nanophotonics and Detectors with these activities:

Study Principles of Lasers

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Strengthen your understanding of laser principles before diving into nanophotonic light emitting devices. This will help you grasp the foundation for the course's content.

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Review textbook chapters or online resources on laser principles.
Solve practice problems related to laser operation and characteristics.

Explore Quantum Cascade Laser Theory

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Understand the fundamentals of quantum cascade lasers and their applications in real-world devices.

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Review materials on intersub-band transitions
Follow online tutorials on quantum cascade laser design
Simulate quantum cascade laser structures using software tools

Explore Quantum Cascade Laser Simulations

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Enhance your comprehension of quantum cascade laser operation by working through interactive simulations. This will provide practical insights into the concepts covered in the course.

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Identify reputable online resources or software for QCL simulations.
Follow tutorials or documentation to set up and run simulations.
Experiment with different parameters to observe the impact on laser performance.

14 other activities

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Attend a Workshop on Nanophotonic Devices

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Gain exposure to cutting-edge research and applications in nanophotonics through industry or academic workshops.

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Identify relevant workshops on nanophotonic devices
Register and attend the workshop
Take notes and ask questions during the workshop

Practice Quantum Cascade Laser Design

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Complete practice drills to reinforce your understanding of the principles of quantum cascade laser design.

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Review the principles of laser operation
Understand the concepts of intersub-band transitions
Design a simple quantum cascade laser structure
Analyze the performance of your design

Discuss Advanced Topics with Classmates

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Engage in peer discussions to explore advanced topics and exchange ideas. This will foster a deeper understanding and different perspectives on the course material.

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Identify a specific topic or concept you want to discuss.
Reach out to classmates and schedule a discussion session.
Prepare talking points and materials to facilitate the discussion.
Actively participate in the discussion, sharing your thoughts and listening to others.

Create a presentation on a nanophotonic device

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Deepen your understanding of a specific nanophotonic device by researching its principles of operation, applications, and limitations, and then presenting your findings to the class.

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Choose a nanophotonic device to research.
Gather information from textbooks, journal articles, and online resources.
Organize your findings into a logical presentation outline.
Create visual aids to support your presentation.
Practice your presentation and deliver it to the class.

Solve Photonic Detection Problems

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Develop problem-solving skills in photonic detection and apply them to real-world scenarios.

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Practice calculating noise equivalent power and detectivity
Analyze performance metrics of different photonic detectors
Design and simulate photonic detection systems

Tutorial on Photonic Detection Technologies

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Follow guided tutorials to gain a deeper understanding of the different photonic detection technologies and their applications.

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Learn about the different types of optical detectors
Understand the key performance metrics of optical detectors
Design a simple optical detector circuit

Solve Photonic Device Design Problems

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Sharpen your problem-solving skills in photonic device design by tackling challenging exercises. This will equip you to handle real-world design scenarios effectively.

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Gather practice problems from textbooks, online forums, or research papers.
Set aside dedicated time for solving these problems.
Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement.

Discuss Design Challenges for Optical Interconnects

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Participate in peer sessions to discuss the design challenges associated with optical interconnects and explore potential solutions.

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Identify the key challenges in designing optical interconnects
Research different approaches to address these challenges
Share your findings with your peers
Brainstorm potential solutions

Build a photodetector using a metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) structure

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Demonstrate your understanding of MSM structures and their application in photodetectors.

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Research MSM structures and their operation
Design and fabricate an MSM photodetector
Characterize the performance of the photodetector

Explore Avalanche Photodiode Mechanisms

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Gain insights into the working principles and applications of avalanche photodiodes.

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Review principles of semiconductor junctions and photodiodes
Study avalanche multiplication mechanisms in avalanche photodiodes
Analyze trade-offs and applications of avalanche photodiodes

Design and Simulate an Optical Detector

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Apply your knowledge of optical detector principles to design and simulate a device that meets specific performance requirements. This will provide you with hands-on experience in the design process.

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Define the specifications and performance metrics for your optical detector.
Research and select appropriate materials and device structures.
Use simulation software to model and optimize your design.
Present your design and simulation results in a technical report.

Develop a simulation model of a quantum cascade laser (QCL)

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Apply your knowledge of QCLs and laser physics to create a computational model.

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Validate the model against experimental data
Choose a simulation software and learn its capabilities
Build a mathematical model of a QCL
Implement the model in the simulation software

Design a Nanophotonic Detector for a Specific Application

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Start a project to apply your knowledge of nanophotonics to the design of a detector for a specific application.

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Identify the requirements for the detector
Research different nanophotonic materials and structures
Design the detector using simulation software
Fabricate and test the detector

Contribute to Open Source Projects in Nanophotonics

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Contribute to open source projects in nanophotonics to gain practical experience and collaborate with a global community of researchers.

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Identify open source projects related to nanophotonics
Find a project that aligns with your interests and skills
Contact the project maintainers and express your interest in contributing
Start contributing to the project

Career center

Learners who complete Nanophotonics and Detectors will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Detector Physicist

Detector Physicists are involved in the study and development of detectors for a wide range of applications, such as medical imaging, particle physics, and astronomy. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Detector Physicists understand the principles of operation of different types of detectors and how to optimize their performance.

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Laser Scientist

Laser Scientists are involved in the study and development of lasers. They are interested in understanding the fundamental principles of laser operation and in developing new laser technologies. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** provides Laser Scientists with a solid foundation in the principles of nanophotonics and how to apply them to the design of lasers.

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Photonics Researcher

Photonics Researchers are involved in the study of the interaction of light with matter. They are interested in developing new ways to generate, manipulate, and detect light, with applications in a wide range of areas, such as telecommunications, medicine, and manufacturing. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Photonics Researchers gain a deeper knowledge of the physics of light emitting devices and optical detectors.

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Semiconductor Device Engineer

Semiconductor Device Engineers design and develop semiconductor devices, such as transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. They are involved in all aspects of the semiconductor manufacturing process, from the growth of the semiconductor crystals to the final packaging of the devices. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Semiconductor Device Engineers understand low dimensional structures and engineer lasers, and apply these structures to photonic device design.

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Optical Engineer

Optical Engineers design and develop optical systems and components, such as lenses, mirrors, and lasers. They are involved in a wide range of applications, from medical imaging to telecommunications. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Optical Engineers understand the principles of nanophotonics and how to apply them to the design of optical systems and components.

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Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists are involved in the study and development of new materials. They are interested in understanding the properties of materials and how they can be used to create new technologies. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Materials Scientists develop an understanding of the materials and physics involved in nanophotonic light emitting devices and optical detectors.

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Applied Physicist

Applied Physicists are involved in the application of physics to solve real-world problems. They work in a wide range of industries, such as manufacturing, medicine, and energy. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Applied Physicists develop a deeper understanding of the physics of light emitting devices and optical detectors.

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Optoelectronics Engineer

Optoelectronics Engineers work with the development and application of optoelectronic devices, systems, and components. They are involved in the design, fabrication, and testing of these devices, as well as in the analysis of their performance. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** can help Optoelectronics Engineers to develop an understanding of the materials and physics involved in nanophotonic light emitting devices and optical detectors.

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Research Scientist

Research Scientists are involved in the study of a wide range of scientific topics, from the fundamental laws of nature to the development of new technologies. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Research Scientists working on nanophotonics, lasers, or detectors.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Professors teaching courses in optics, photonics, or electrical engineering.

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Scientist

Scientists study the natural world and use their knowledge to develop new technologies and solve problems. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Scientists working on optics or photonics.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documents that explain complex technical information to a specific audience. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Technical Writers who need to write about optics, photonics, or electrical engineering.

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Engineer

Engineers design, build, and maintain a wide range of products and systems, from bridges and buildings to cars and computers. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Engineers working on optical systems or devices.

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Patent Attorney

Patent Attorneys help their clients obtain and protect patents for their inventions. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Patent Attorneys who specialize in optics, photonics, or electrical engineering.

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Physicist

Physicists are involved in the study of everything around us, from the smallest subatomic particles to the vastness of the universe. They can specialize in areas such as particle physics, nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, or quantum mechanics. **Nanophotonics and Detectors** may be useful to Physicists working in quantum mechanics to engineer and design low dimensional structures for lasers and detectors.

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