Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/nanophotonics-detectors
If you’re looking to delve into the fascinating field of nanophotonics, the Coursera course “Nanophotonics and Detectors” presented by CU Boulder is an excellent choice. This course not only provides a rigorous academic experience but also offers the opportunity to earn academic credit as ECEA 5606, which is part of the Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree at CU Boulder.
### What to Expect
The course is designed for both beginners and advanced learners, as it meticulously guides students through various fundamental concepts of nanophotonic devices. The curriculum covers a range of topics such as metal semiconductors, metal semiconductor insulators, pn junctions, photoconductors, avalanche photodiodes, and photomultiplier tubes. Each week includes a set of challenging homework assignments that push students to apply their knowledge in practical scenarios.
### Syllabus Overview
#### Module 1: Quantum Cascade Lasers
You’ll kick off your journey with an introduction to quantum cascade lasers, which are innovative due to their operation on intersub-band and intraband transitions. This module highlights the breakthrough in laser technology, enabling long wavelength emissions that are critical for various applications.
#### Module 2: Confined Photons
Next, you’ll explore how to confine photons much like electrons. This topic opens up discussions about enhancing laser performance and creating ‘threshold-less’ lasers, an exciting development in the field.
#### Module 3: Photonic Detection
In this module, you’ll delve into the basics of photonic detection. By understanding key performance metrics such as noise equivalent power and detectivity, you’ll gain insight into the fundamental principles that underlie detector technologies.
#### Module 4: Metal Insulator Semiconductor Structures
This section will guide you through the operation of metal insulator semiconductor devices, a crucial foundation for understanding charge-coupled devices (CCDs) explored in the following module.
#### Module 5: Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) and Photoconductors
This module focuses on CCDs and photoconductors. You’ll learn how these technologies function and their significant applications in photonic systems.
#### Module 6: P/N Junctions and Avalanche Photodiodes (APDs)
Finally, you’ll cover p-n junctions and the related technology of avalanche photodiodes, exploring their functionality and applications from microscopy to LIDAR systems.
### Why Take This Course?
This course is highly recommended for anyone interested in careers related to photonics research or engineering. With its depth of content and practical focus, it equips learners with invaluable knowledge and skills for the workforce. The instructors are knowledgeable and passionate, creating an engaging online learning environment.
Overall, “Nanophotonics and Detectors” is an enriching experience that combines theory and practical application. Whether you’re a student or a seasoned professional looking to deepen your expertise, this course is a step in the right direction.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/nanophotonics-detectors