Mastering Fiber Optic Technology

An intense one day course that dives deep into every aspect of fiber optic technology. Starting with a physical model of electrodynamics in media at optical frequencies, the optic fiber is presented as a dielectric waveguide with an accurate and intuitive distinction between single and multimode fibers and resultant modal dispersion. Reflection and refraction are used to illustrate polarization effects. Interference is presented as the basis for optical filters, multiplexers and demultiplexers, and spectrum analyzers. Light generation and coherence are taught in the context of electronic transitions in atomic and semiconductor systems and used as the foundation to understand lasers and optical transmitters, PIN diodes and optical receivers, and Raman scattering and optical amplifiers. The evolution of the index of refraction as a function of wavelength provides the framework for an accurate understanding of chromatic and, for polarization mode dispersion, the effect of crystal and nonlinear effects such as birefringence, the Kerr effect, and dichroism. Advanced topics such as the use of solitons in communications systems, the optical switch, novel fiber designs and new modulation techniques are introduced to encourage discussion. This seminar can be modified to concentrate on your primary areas of concern.