We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Robert McLeod
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5601, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
Read more
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5601, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
Read more
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5601, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
Optical instruments are how we see the world, from corrective eyewear to medical endoscopes to cell phone cameras to orbiting telescopes. This course will teach you how to design such optical systems with simple mathematical and graphical techniques. The first order optical system design covered in the previous course is useful for the initial design of an optical imaging system but does not predict the energy and resolution of the system. This course discusses the propagation of intensity for Gaussian beams and incoherent sources. It also introduces the mathematical background required to design an optical system with the required field of view and resolution. You will also learn how to analyze these characteristics of your optical system using an industry-standard design tool, OpticStudio by Zemax.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/rvh5de/optical
Here's a deal for you
Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Geometrical Optics for Gaussian Beams
First order optical system design using rays is useful for the initial design of an optical imaging system, but does not predict the energy and resolution of the system. This module introduces Gaussian beams, a specific example of how the shape of the light evolves in an imaging system.
Read more
Syllabus
Geometrical Optics for Gaussian Beams
First order optical system design using rays is useful for the initial design of an optical imaging system, but does not predict the energy and resolution of the system. This module introduces Gaussian beams, a specific example of how the shape of the light evolves in an imaging system.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches optical design principles, which are highly relevant in industry
This course is also available for academic credit, providing a strong academic foundation
Taught by experienced instructors in the field
Provides the necessary mathematical background for optical system design
Covers a comprehensive range of topics, including Gaussian beams, incoherent sources, and radiometry
Involves the use of industry-standard design tools, ensuring practical relevance
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Technical optical design & analysis
According to learners, this course provides a solid theoretical foundation in optical efficiency and resolution, effectively covering topics like Gaussian beams and radiometry. Students particularly appreciate the practical application using OpticStudio by Zemax, which helps link theory to design practice. However, a significant point noted by some is the demanding mathematical background required, making certain sections potentially difficult to follow without prior knowledge. While overall positive, be prepared for a rigorous technical approach.
Links theory to practice effectively.
"The OpticStudio examples were particularly helpful for practical application."
"The use of OpticStudio ties the theory to practice effectively."
"The OpticStudio parts were useful, but the theoretical lectures were sometimes hard to follow..."
Covers key concepts thoroughly.
"Provides a solid foundation in Gaussian beams and resolution."
"Fantastic course! I especially appreciated the detailed explanations of Maxwell's equations..."
"A very informative course. The radiometry section was particularly well done..."
Certain parts felt rushed or unclear.
"I found the section on impulse responses a bit dense, could have used more examples."
"felt rushed at times."
"The theoretical lectures were sometimes hard to follow without a strong pre-existing math background."
Requires strong math/physics background.
"The mathematical background required seems higher than advertised. Struggled with the Fourier optics section."
"assumes too much prior knowledge. The math derivations were hard to follow and not explained sufficiently."
"definitely not for a complete beginner without a strong physics/math background."
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 Optical Efficiency and Resolution with these
activities:
Review basic concepts of electromagnetic waves
Show steps
Strengthen foundational understanding of electromagnetic waves to support comprehension of optical system design.
Browse courses on
Maxwell's Equations
Show steps
-
Review lecture notes or online resources on electromagnetic theory.
-
Solve practice problems involving electromagnetic wave propagation.
-
Attend office hours or consult with the instructor for additional support.
Find a mentor in the field of optics
Show steps
Gain valuable guidance and support in pursuing your interest in optics by seeking a mentor.
Show steps
-
Network with professionals in the field to identify potential mentors.
-
Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest.
-
Establish a mentoring relationship that aligns with your goals.
Read 'Fundamentals of Optics' by Jenkins and White
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of optics by reviewing a classic textbook in the field.
View
Fundamentals of Optics 1957 [Leather Bound]
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the assigned chapters and take notes on the key concepts.
-
Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter.
-
Discuss the concepts with a study group or tutor.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Calculate the focal lengths of lenses and mirrors
Show steps
Reinforce understanding of the basic principles of geometrical optics by practicing calculations involving lenses and mirrors.
Browse courses on
Geometrical Optics
Show steps
-
Review the equations for calculating the focal length of a thin lens.
-
Practice calculating the focal length of a lens using the lensmaker's equation.
-
Review the equations for calculating the focal length of a mirror.
-
Practice calculating the focal length of a mirror using the mirror equation.
-
Apply the equations to solve problems involving lenses and mirrors.
Discuss the applications of optical instruments
Show steps
Expand knowledge of the practical applications of optical instruments by discussing their uses in various fields.
Show steps
-
Research different applications of optical instruments in fields such as medicine, astronomy, and manufacturing.
-
Prepare a presentation or lead a discussion on the applications you researched.
-
Participate in the discussion and share your insights.
Design and build an optical system using Gaussian beams
Show steps
Demonstrate understanding of optical system design principles by designing and building a system that incorporates Gaussian beams.
Show steps
-
Research different types of optical systems and their applications.
-
Design the optical system using Gaussian beam propagation and imaging equations.
-
Build the optical system using lenses, mirrors, and other optical components.
-
Test the optical system using a light source and a detector.
-
Analyze the results and make adjustments to the optical system as needed.
Write a summary of the course material
Show steps
Reinforce understanding of the course material by summarizing the key concepts in your own words.
Show steps
-
Review the lecture notes and textbook chapters.
-
Identify the main concepts and ideas.
-
Write a concise and clear summary of each concept.
-
Share your summary with a classmate or instructor for feedback.
Review basic concepts of electromagnetic waves
Show steps
Strengthen foundational understanding of electromagnetic waves to support comprehension of optical system design.
Browse courses on
Maxwell's Equations
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review lecture notes or online resources on electromagnetic theory.
- Solve practice problems involving electromagnetic wave propagation.
- Attend office hours or consult with the instructor for additional support.
Find a mentor in the field of optics
Show steps
Gain valuable guidance and support in pursuing your interest in optics by seeking a mentor.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Network with professionals in the field to identify potential mentors.
- Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest.
- Establish a mentoring relationship that aligns with your goals.
Read 'Fundamentals of Optics' by Jenkins and White
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of optics by reviewing a classic textbook in the field.
View
Fundamentals of Optics 1957 [Leather Bound]
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the assigned chapters and take notes on the key concepts.
- Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter.
- Discuss the concepts with a study group or tutor.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Calculate the focal lengths of lenses and mirrors
Show steps
Reinforce understanding of the basic principles of geometrical optics by practicing calculations involving lenses and mirrors.
Browse courses on
Geometrical Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the equations for calculating the focal length of a thin lens.
- Practice calculating the focal length of a lens using the lensmaker's equation.
- Review the equations for calculating the focal length of a mirror.
- Practice calculating the focal length of a mirror using the mirror equation.
- Apply the equations to solve problems involving lenses and mirrors.
Discuss the applications of optical instruments
Show steps
Expand knowledge of the practical applications of optical instruments by discussing their uses in various fields.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different applications of optical instruments in fields such as medicine, astronomy, and manufacturing.
- Prepare a presentation or lead a discussion on the applications you researched.
- Participate in the discussion and share your insights.
Design and build an optical system using Gaussian beams
Show steps
Demonstrate understanding of optical system design principles by designing and building a system that incorporates Gaussian beams.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of optical systems and their applications.
- Design the optical system using Gaussian beam propagation and imaging equations.
- Build the optical system using lenses, mirrors, and other optical components.
- Test the optical system using a light source and a detector.
- Analyze the results and make adjustments to the optical system as needed.
Write a summary of the course material
Show steps
Reinforce understanding of the course material by summarizing the key concepts in your own words.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the lecture notes and textbook chapters.
- Identify the main concepts and ideas.
- Write a concise and clear summary of each concept.
- Share your summary with a classmate or instructor for feedback.
Career center
Learners who complete Optical Efficiency and Resolution will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Optomechanical Engineer
Optomechanical Engineer
An Optomechanical Engineer designs, builds, tests, and maintains optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics, mechanics, and materials to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as medical imaging, telecommunications, and manufacturing. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optomechanical Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build optical systems, and how to test and maintain optical systems.
Optical Engineer
Optical Engineer
An Optical Engineer designs, builds, and tests optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as medical imaging, telecommunications, and manufacturing. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build optical systems, and how to test and maintain optical systems.
Photonics Engineer
Photonics Engineer
A Photonics Engineer designs, builds, and tests photonic devices. They use their knowledge of optics and electronics to create devices that can be used in a variety of applications, such as telecommunications, medical imaging, and manufacturing. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a Photonics Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build photonic devices, and how to test and maintain photonic devices.
Imaging Scientist
Imaging Scientist
An Imaging Scientist develops and tests imaging systems. They use their knowledge of optics, image processing, and computer science to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as medical imaging, remote sensing, and surveillance. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Imaging Scientist. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build imaging systems, and how to test and maintain imaging systems.
Optical Systems Engineer
Optical Systems Engineer
An Optical Systems Engineer designs, builds, and tests optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics, mechanics, and electrical engineering to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as medical imaging, telecommunications, and manufacturing. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Systems Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build optical systems, and how to test and maintain optical systems.
Lens Designer
Lens Designer
A Lens Designer designs and develops lenses for a variety of applications, such as cameras, telescopes, and microscopes. They use their knowledge of optics to create lenses that can produce high-quality images. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a Lens Designer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design lenses, and how to test and maintain lenses.
Optical Metrologist
Optical Metrologist
An Optical Metrologist develops and uses optical measurement techniques to characterize the properties of materials and objects. They use their knowledge of optics and metrology to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as quality control, manufacturing, and research. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Metrologist. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build optical measurement systems, and how to test and maintain optical measurement systems.
Laser Systems Engineer
Laser Systems Engineer
A Laser Systems Engineer designs, builds, and tests laser systems. They use their knowledge of optics, lasers, and electrical engineering to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as laser cutting, laser welding, and laser marking. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a Laser Systems Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build laser systems, and how to test and maintain laser systems.
Fiber Optics Engineer
Fiber Optics Engineer
A Fiber Optics Engineer designs, builds, and tests fiber optic systems. They use their knowledge of optics, fiber optics, and telecommunications to create systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as telecommunications, data transmission, and medical imaging. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be a Fiber Optics Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build fiber optic systems, and how to test and maintain fiber optic systems.
Imaging Physicist
Imaging Physicist
An Imaging Physicist develops and uses imaging techniques to study the structure and function of living organisms. They use their knowledge of optics, physics, and biology to create imaging systems that can be used in a variety of applications, such as medical imaging, neuroscience, and cancer research. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Imaging Physicist. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build imaging systems, and how to test and maintain imaging systems.
Optical Technician
Optical Technician
An Optical Technician assembles, tests, and maintains optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics to ensure that systems are working properly and that they are meeting the required specifications. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Technician. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to assemble and test optical systems, and how to maintain optical systems.
Optical Designer
Optical Designer
An Optical Designer designs and develops optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics to create systems that can produce high-quality images. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Designer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design optical systems, and how to test and maintain optical systems.
Optical Engineer Assistant
Optical Engineer Assistant
An Optical Engineer Assistant assists Optical Engineers in the design, development, and testing of optical systems. They may also be responsible for assembling and maintaining optical systems. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Engineer Assistant. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to assemble and test optical systems, and how to maintain optical systems.
Optoelectronics Engineer
Optoelectronics Engineer
An Optoelectronics Engineer designs, builds, and tests devices that combine optics and electronics. They use their knowledge of optics, electronics, and materials science to create devices that can be used in a variety of applications, such as telecommunications, data transmission, and medical imaging. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optoelectronics Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to design and build optoelectronic devices, and how to test and maintain optoelectronic devices.
Optical Sales Engineer
Optical Sales Engineer
An Optical Sales Engineer sells optical products and services to customers. They use their knowledge of optics to help customers select the right products and services for their needs. This course can help you to develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an Optical Sales Engineer. You will learn about the principles of optics, how to sell optical products and services, and how to provide technical support to customers.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/rvh5de/optical
Reading list
We've selected 15 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Optical Efficiency and Resolution.
Kidger's book is an advanced textbook covering the material taught in the course. It provides many examples of optical system design and includes a number of end-of-chapter problems, which can be useful for the student looking to do more practice.
This popular undergraduate optics textbook valuable resource for the student starting out in optics. It provides a non-mathematical treatment of physical and geometrical optics, with many examples and applications to help the student through the dense material.
Comprehensive treatment of geometrical and physical optics. It provides a strong grounding in the fundamentals of optics.
Photonics is the study of how light interacts with matter, and major area of scientific research. provides a broad overview of the field for readers with a strong background in physics and mathematics.
This classic optics textbook that provides an encyclopedic look at the field of optics. It is not as introductory as some of the other books on the list, but it is still suitable for the motivated student. This great reference book to have on the shelf.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of optics and photonics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the theory and techniques of optics and photonics.
Provides a comprehensive treatment of the optics of photography and photographic lenses. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about photography and optics.
Save
Fourier Optics is an important topic for understanding the resolution of an imaging system. Goodman's book popular undergraduate textbook used to introduce the subject to physics, engineering and applied mathematics undergraduates.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of lasers and optoelectronics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the physics and applications of lasers.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of optical communication. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the theory and techniques of optical communication.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of fiber optics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the theory and techniques of fiber optics.
Is suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in engineering and applied physics. It covers a wide range of topics, including geometrical optics, wave optics, and laser physics.
Offers an introduction to the field of optics that is both readable and up to date. It covers a wide range of topics, including geometrical optics, wave optics, and laser physics.
Uses the programming language Python to help students visualize and simulate optical problems. It useful tool for students who want to learn more about optics and programming.
Save
Holography technique for creating three-dimensional images using light. provides a comprehensive overview of the field for readers with a strong background in physics and mathematics.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/rvh5de/optical
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Effort
6 weeks of study, 4 - 6 hours/week
Level
Advanced
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Robert McLeod
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Optical Engineering. It's comprised of three courses:
- First Order Optical System Design
- Optical Efficiency and Resolution (viewing)
- Design of High-Performance Optical Systems
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser