SK2402 Fundamentals of Photonics 7.5 credits

The course covers the physical principles underlying the operation of basic photonic components such as lasers, modulators, optical fibers and detectors and involving the generation, transmission, manipulation and detection of light.

Specifically, the course covers the following topics:

• Electromagnetic optics
• Beam optics
• Guided-wave optics
• Coupled mode theory
• Optics of periodic systems
• Resonator optics
• Acousto-optics
• Electro-optics
• Nonlinear optics
• Ultrafast optics
• Generation and detection of light

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• explain the physical principles underlying the generation, transmission, manipulation and detection of light.
• choose, derive and apply suitable models to predict and analyze the response of basic photonic components such as optical waveguides, resonators, modulators, frequency converters and switches, optical sources and detectors.
• identify and critically discuss the limits of validity and applicability of the different models.
• perform basic measurements through hands-on work in a photonic lab.
• analyze and present data acquired using lab instruments and generated by simulations.
• be able to solve with the necessary literature practical and theoretical problems within the field of photonics.

At least 120 credits in engineering and natural sciences and knowledge of English B or equivalent.

• INL1 - Assignments, 2.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• LAB1 - Laboratory work, 1.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Examination, 4.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

The examiner, in consultation with the KTH Disability Coordinator (Funka), decides on any adapted examination for students with documented permanent impairment. The examiner may grant another examination form for reexamination of single students.

The course is examined through a review of written and oral presentation (TEN1; 4 credits, grading scale A/B/C/D/E/Fx/F), as well as approved assignments (INL1; 2.5 credits, grading scale P/F) and laboratories (LAB1; 1.0 credits, grading scale P/F). The grade on TEN1 determines the grade on the course.

Valdas Pasiskevicius

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.