Sarnoff and Optoelectronics

Optoelectronics involves the technology of generating, controlling, and detecting photons particularly in the visible and near infrared spectra, but also extending to the ultraviolet, and far-infrared/THz portion of the spectrum. The basis of optoelectronics involves the fabrication of specific semiconductor crystal structures which are designed to convert input drive current into output photons (“light”) or vice-versa. As these devices are direct electrical-to-optical converters, they provide for highly efficient light emitters (including lasers), modulators, and detectors. In recent years, Sarnoff has focused on devices operating in the visible through infrared (IR) spectral regimes. With detailed expertise in device design, epitaxial growth of crystal structure, device processing and characterization, and system integration, Sarnoff has a unique perspective to offer our government and commercial customers.

Sarnoff has been pioneering optoelectronic material and components for over 40 years, including the historic 1962 demonstration of ~100% quantum efficiency (QE) in GaAs light emitters as well as demonstrating the first blue light-emitting diode and fabricating the first laser to be flown in space. Sarnoff’s expertise in material and device design, advanced material growth and device fabrication has been leveraged in recent efforts to develop high performance optoelectronic components and sub-systems including novel high-power emitters, low linewidth and low noise single-wavelength emitters, high speed and highly sensitive optical modulators, ultra-low loss optical waveguide delay lines, and precision devices for such applications as data communications, RF signal processing, directed energy, and precision sensing and timing.

Optoelectronics is an enabling technology for existing and emerging application systems. Optoelectronic components and sub-systems are inherent in everyday applications including optical data recording (CD and DVD), fiber optic telecommunications (the backbone of current commications systems), laser printing (based on xerography), displays, and optical pumping of high-power lasers commonly used for industrial machining/welding, surgical tissue ablation and cosmetic surgery. The potential applications of photonics are virtually unlimited and include chemical synthesis, medical diagnostics, on-chip data communication, laser defense, inertial sensing, and precision atomic and optical clocks to name several interesting additional examples.