This course is an introduction to photonics, the science and technology of controlling photons. Photonics is a rapidly developing technology with applications in communications, medicine, computing, environmental studies, basic science, and many other fields. The course begins with the photon theory of light and an investigation of the interaction of light with matter. Based on this interaction, the processes of spontaneous emission, absorption, and stimulated emission are treated. This leads to the development of the basic principles of lasers and laser amplifiers. Alongside a generic treatment of lasers, specific laser systems are also investigated. Particular emphasis is given to semiconductor lasers, light emitting diodes, and light detectors. Further optoelectronic devices based on the electro-optic and acousto-optic effects are also discussed. In addition to these, an introduction to nonlinear optics is given.
Text: Saleh and Teich, Fundamentals of Photonics, Chapters 11--20.