Optoelectronic Devices

Abstract

Optoelectronics refers to the studies of optics and electronics. Optoelectronic devices involve the interaction of photons of semiconductors. These devices find important applications such as sensors, couplers, isolaters and emitters. In this chapter, the Optoelectronic semiconductor devices are enumerated. Optical properties and characteristics of illuminated junction, are elaborated. Solar cell: its construction, working, factors affecting its efficiency, fabrication and materials, advantages and limitations, and applications are narrated. Further, different types of photodetectors are classified, requirements of a good photodetector and methods to achieve fast responsing speed are discussed. Working, construction and choice of materials are given for p-i-n photodetector, silicon heteroface photodetector and photoconductive detector. Light emitting diode: its construction and working, advantages, applications, specifications, and suitable materials for them are described. Semiconductor lasers: their working, merits, characteristics and properties, applications, and suitable materials for them are elaborated. The lasers diodes, light dependent resistor, differences between homo-junction laser and heterojunction laser, and spontaneous emission and stimulated emission are explained. Importance of optoelectronic pair and population inversion are briefly presented. Minute insight into the various topics are given through solved numerical and theoretical examples. Review questions, numerical problems and objective type questions are also given with their answers.