Optoelectronics refers to the branch of electronics that studies devices converting electrical signals to optical signals or vice versa. This technology integrates photonics and electronics, enabling critical functions in data transmission, sensing, illumination, and energy conversion. Its importance spans telecommunications, medical diagnostics, industrial automation, and consumer electronics.
| Type | Functional Features | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Photodetectors | Convert light intensity to electrical current/voltage | Fiber optic communication receivers |
| Laser Diodes | Generate coherent light through stimulated emission | Medical surgery systems, LiDAR |
| LEDs | Electroluminescence for efficient light emission | General lighting, display backlights |
| Optical Sensors | Measure light properties for environmental monitoring | Smartphone proximity sensors |
| Optical Modulators | Control light beam intensity/phase | Telecom network transmitters |
| Solar Cells | Convert sunlight to electricity via photovoltaic effect | Renewable energy systems |
Typical optoelectronic devices consist of:
| Parameter | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Wavelength Range | Operating spectral bandwidth (nm) | Determines compatibility with optical fibers/systems |
| Responsivity | Current output per optical power (A/W) | Measures detection efficiency |
| Output Power | Luminous flux/power (lm/mW) | Dictates transmission range and brightness |
| Quantum Efficiency | Photon-to-electron conversion rate (%) | Indicates energy conversion effectiveness |
| Bandwidth | Frequency response range (MHz-GHz) | Defines data transmission capacity |
| Operating Temperature | Functional temperature range ( C) | Impacts reliability and application environments |
Case Example: Automotive LiDAR systems using laser diodes and photodetectors achieve 360 environmental mapping with 0.1 angular resolution for autonomous driving applications.
| Company | Key Products | Application Focus |
|---|---|---|
| OSRAM Opto | OSTAR Headlamp LEDs | Automotive lighting |
| Hamamatsu Photonics | S14161 APD arrays | Medical imaging |
| Lumentum | PLC-based laser sources | Telecom networks |
| Broadcom | HCPL-7531 optocouplers | Industrial automation |
| First Solar | CdTe thin-film modules | Utility-scale solar farms |
Future development focuses on: