Laser Photonics Academy
Magnet Program
Introduction to Lasers
(ETS2230)
Course Syllabus
Academic Year
2015-2016
Course Description: This course introduces students to the basic principles of laser operations, safety,
and applications. Topics include: Elements and Operation of a Laser, Laser Safety, Emission and
Absorption of light, Lasing Action, Optical Cavities and Modes of Oscillation, Temporal and Spatial
Characteristics of Lasers, and Laser Classifications and Characteristics. Laboratory experimentations
will complement and reinforce the theoretical concepts of lecture material.
Essential Outcomes/Standards: By the completion of this course students will be able to:





Demonstrate understanding of laser safety.
Explain the essential processes associated with laser operation.
Identify and explain the function of parts used in modern laser systems.
Measure output characteristics of CW and pulsed laser systems.
Identify applications and uses for commercial and industrial purposes.
Course Resources:

OP-TEC, Course 1: Introduction to Lasers, CORD Communications, 2009
Other Course Information:





Teacher: Mr. Grimming
Teacher Email: robert.grimming@ocps.net
Teacher Phone: 407-297-4900 ext 6192529
Room: 529
Scheduled Time: Periods 1-2
Grading Policies:





Quiz (Weight): 20%
Class Exercises and Laboratories (Weight): 20%
Homework (Weight): 15%
Mid-Term (Weight): 15%
Final Exam (Weight): 30%
AY 2015-2016
Laser Photonics Academy
2
Unit Schedule:
Unit
1. The Laser Process
2. Laser Design
Mid-Term
3. Laser Light Properties
4. Laser Classification and Characteristics
Final Exam
AY 2015-2016
Start
August 25, 2015
Laser Photonics Academy
End
September 9, 2015
Days
11
3
Unit 1: The Laser Process
Unit Overview. In the years since its inception, the laser has become a valuable instrument in an
increasing number of industrial, military and medical applications. A study of the way in which atoms
absorb and emit energy is helpful to the understanding of how a laser operates. By controlling how
absorption occurs within a material lasing action can be achieved.
Unit Objectives.
1. Define the absorption of a photon by an atom and conditions required for it to occur.
2. Explain the processes of spontaneous absorption and stimulated absorption.
3. Explain broadening mechanisms in solids and gases.
4. List and explain conditions for lasing to occur.
5. Calculate transmission and absorption properties of a material.
6. Explain laser operation using 3- and 4-level energy level diagrams.
Lesson
Lesson 1-1: Overview of Laser Process
Lesson 1-2: Energy of a Photon
Lesson 1-3: Energy Levels and
Transitions in Atoms
Lesson 1-4: Emission and Absorption
Spectra Lab
Lesson 1-5: Transmission and Gain
Day
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Date
August 25, 2015
August 26, 2015
August 27, 2015
Friday
August 28, 2015
Monday
August 31, 2015
Lesson 1-6: Energy Transfer in Lasers
Lesson 1-7: Absorption Lab
Lesson 1-8: Rate Equations
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
September 1, 2015
September 2, 2015
September 3, 2015
Lesson 1-9: Unit 1 Review
Unit 1 Quiz
Schedule Adjust*
Friday
Tuesday
Wednesday
September 4, 2015
September 8, 2015
September 9, 2015
Homework
Due: Module
1-5 Questions
Due: Module
1-6 Questions
*This unit contains one day allocated for school wide events that may interfere with the unit’s
progression. The Schedule Adjust may occur at any point within this unit without affecting the start and
end date.
AY 2015-2016
Laser Photonics Academy
4