Optoelectronic components

Optoelectronic systems are increasing in their application to electronic equipment, and optical components have become increasingly integrated with electronic components. Optically coupled semiconductor devices where the output is electrically isolated from the input and control is accomplished by an optical link, provide a class of devices offering unique advantages in many circuit applications. Many conventional electrical networks are being upgraded to optical networks to take advantage of the increased speed and efficiency. The development of optical transmission lines consisting of optical fibers has lead to widespread use of optical communication in many applications requiring long distance, high data rate communication such as telecommunications. Optical communication networks use lasers to create light which is then modulated to convey information. Solid-state lasers have received particular attention in recent years. Semiconductor laser diodes are essential components for optical amplifier systems of the kind expected to fulfill the increasing requirements of rapid and large capacity communications. The proliferation of optical communication networks has created a strong demand for electro-optical assemblies. Such optoelectronic components interact with radiation and electric current. The interaction can be photoelectric where the device converts incident radiant energy into electrical energy. Optoelectronic devices rely on the optical and electronic properties of materials to either produce or detect electromagnetic radiation electronically or to generate electricity from ambient electromagnetic radiation. Optoelectronic semiconductor devices may include photodiodes, bipolar phototransistors, and field effect (FET) phototransistors. These devices operate on the principle that irradiation of a semiconductor material with light causes liberation of electron-hole pairs in the material. Photosensitive optoelectronic devices convert electromagnetic radiation into electricity. Photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells, are being used in increasing applications for the conversion of sunlight into electricity.