Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Semiconductor Optoelectronics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20SO
Semester
On or OffCampus
Credits
2
On
15
1. Pre-requisites
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
Code:
5.
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
B2B1-PHO
B2L1-ELE
B2BM-PHO
B2LM-ELE
B2DM-OPT
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
X
BSc Photonics and Lasers
BSc Physics with Electronic Engineering
MPhys Photonics and Lasers
MPhys Physics with Electronic Engineering
MPhys Optoelectronics and Lasers
MSc in Photonics and Optoelectronics Devices
Erasmus Mundus MSc in Photonics
7. Aims
To provide linkage between knowledge of optics, semiconductors and electronics gained in Levels 1-3, as well as linking to Level 4 module Fibre Optic Communications.
The module will provide an investigation of practical aspects of semiconductor optoelectronic device design and manufacture.
8. Syllabus
Semiconductor physics – Fermi Level, density of states, doping, recombination mechanisms, pn junction.
Light Emitting Diodes.
Laser diodes: rate equations, operational characteristics, modulation.
Specialised laser diodes – multiple quantum well, quantum dot, distributed feedback, VCSELs.
Photoemissive detectors and photomultipliers.
Semiconductor photodetectors: Schottky, pn, p-i-n photodiodes, and avalanche photodiodes.
Noise in semiconductor detectors and amplifiers.
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Semiconductor Optoelectronics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20SO
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Achieve a critical understanding of the theories, concepts and principles of the characteristics of laser action in semiconductors
 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of the module topics, in particular:
laser action in semiconductors
key designs of semiconductor lasers and design considerations in major semiconductor optoelectronic devices
optical detection in semiconductor photodiode structures
impact ionisation
noise in photodiodes and associated amplifier circuitry
choice of device type in optical system applications.
 Integrate previous knowledge from the physics course with the topics discussed in the module
 Analyse advanced problems in numerical modelling and data analysis
 Apply the theory of the module topics to problems or situations not previously encountered
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Apply the advanced core knowledge expected of a professional physicist to gain professional level insights,
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues
 Interpret, use and evaluate critically a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use a range of ICT skills with on-line materials and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise significant initiative and independence in carrying out learning activities and researching information
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
(if applicable)
Examination
3 hours
Synoptic modules?
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
100%
2/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Semiconductor Optoelectronics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B20SO
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
19/04/08
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
2
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