Lasers

Module overview

Lasers and photonic techniques are used in all branches of science and technology. The principles of laser operation will be discussed, with reference to commonly used laser systems. The course provides knowledge of the laser as a fundamental tool of contemporary science and technology. The course will give a detailed and mathematical introduction to gain media, laser cavities, Gaussian beams, and their combination into many forms of laser.

Linked modules

Pre-requisites: PHYS2001 AND PHYS2003

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

Understand the differences between continuous & pulsed laser systems, and the uses of both.
Understand how the design of a laser and the choice of the gain medium affects its output characteristics.
Assess the properties of new laser systems based on a knowledge of their design.
Appreciate the diversity of laser designs and applications.

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Perform quantitative calculations on the properties of cavities, beams, and gain media, and the output of simple laser systems.

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Use a variety of information sources (lectures, web, journals) and software tools to understand & solve problems

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching will consist of a combination of lectures and problem classes

Study time
Type	Hours
Problem Classes	6
Completion of assessment task	18
Independent Study	92
Lecture	24
Total study time	140

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Eugene Hecht. Optics. Addison Wesley.

Orazio Svelto. Principles of Lasers. Plenum.

Anthony E Siegman (31533). Lasers. University Science Books.

William T Silfvast. Laser Fundamentals. Cambridge University Press.

Assessment

Assessment strategy

Assessment is by final examination and coursework

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Continuous Assessment	20%
Examination	80%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Examination	100%

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Examination	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External