This course introduces the student to the exciting field of photonic signal processing where we combine the capabilities of photonics and electronics and systems theory to solve computationally and hardware intensive systems oriented problems. The class is device and technology oriented, with a focus on engineering systems. The student will develop improved skills and understanding for the design, building, and testing of advanced photonic information processing systems using a host of device technologies such as fiber-optics, bulk polarization optics, acousto-optics, electro-optics, liquid crystals, micromirrors, and integrated optics. The class will encourage student participation through design problems and class demonstrations. The course also concentrates on various photonic information processing system design applications with an emphasis on application dependent novel optical designs. These photonic systems include wavelength multiplexed optical communication and switching systems, fiber-optic filters, fiber-optic variable attenuators, delay lines, laser beam steerers, radio frequency (RF) spectrum analyzers, correlators, convolvers, narrowband radar and array antenna controllers, adaptive filters, wideband radar and array antenna controllers, ultrasonic signal processors for medical and industrial testing applications, transmitters and receivers for optical communications, two dimensional signal processors for radar range-doppler processing, optical interferometers, and inertialess programmable optics.

Prerequisite

• College Level Mathematics and Physics and any introductory course in optics such as Optical Engineering. Suitable for Optics, Electrical Engineering, and Physics Majors.

Reference texts

• B. G. Boone, Signal Processing using Optics, Oxford (http://www.oup.com/us/).
• A. VanderLugt, Optical Signal Processing, Wiley.

MEMS-based Fiber-Optic Signal Processing Module (left) and All Fiber Connected Single Bit Photonic Delay Line (PDL) Module (right)