PHYS20612 Introduction to Photonics

Aims:
This course introduces the concepts of photonics (the application and use of light in modern technologies) by discussing 4 broad themes, that of the nature of light, the transmission and detection of light, how information is encoded using light and different applications of these technologies. The course builds on the foundations laid in the 1st year and leads onto more advanced courses in lasers and photonics in later semesters. Short and long questions on various aspects of the course (with solutions) will be given during the course. All material will be available on Blackboard and on the school teachweb pages.

Learning Outcomes:
On completion of the course students should understand:


 * 1) the nature of light and how to manipulate it for applications in photonics & related disciplines
 * 2) how light can be produced and how the properties of light can be determined
 * 3) how light can be used in communications systems
 * 4) application examples which have evolved from photonic techniques.