Optoelectronics

Abstract Reviews the materials and components that are complementary to lasers in optoelectronic systems, starting with the photodiodes needed for light detection and the light emitting diodes used for broadband emission (and especially for energy-efficient lighting). Continues to non-linear optical materials and their applications in volume holography and optical phase conjugation, and the related phenomenon of acousto-optic diffraction. Explains the operation of integrated optic components such as waveguides, modulators and switches used in optical fibre telecommunications, and bulk optical components such as spatial light modulators, non-linear Fabry-Perot cavities, MEMS-based optical scross-connect switches and electro-absorption modulators used in free-space optical systems.