Semiconductor Electronic and Photonic Devices
Module PH2171
Module version of SS 2018
There are historic module descriptions of this module. A module description is valid until replaced by a newer one.
Whether the module’s courses are offered during a specific semester is listed in the section Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature below.
| available module versions | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SS 2019 | SS 2018 | SS 2017 | SS 2016 | SS 2015 | SS 2013 |
Basic Information
PH2171 is a semester module in German or English language at Master’s level which is offered irregular.
This Module is included in the following catalogues within the study programs in physics.
- Specific catalogue of special courses for condensed matter physics
- Specific catalogue of special courses for Applied and Engineering Physics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for nuclear, particle, and astrophysics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for Biophysics
If not stated otherwise for export to a non-physics program the student workload is given in the following table.
| Total workload | Contact hours | Credits (ECTS) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 h | 30 h | 5 CP |
Responsible coordinator of the module PH2171 in the version of SS 2018 was Ian Sharp.
Content, Learning Outcome and Preconditions
Content
This module will introduce the students to the physics of semiconductor-based optical and electronic devices, their functional characteristics, and their physical realization. The following devices and structures will be addressed in detail:
Semiconductor contacts: Ohmic and Schottky metal/semiconductor contacts, metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) contacts, and semiconductor-semiconductor contacts
Diode components: basic p-n junctions, tunnel diodes, avalanche diodes, Gunn diodes
Bipolar transistors
Thyristors
Field effect transistors (FETs): junction FETs, metal-oxide-semiconductor FETs (MOSFETs), charge coupled devices (CCDs)
Optoelectronics: light-emitting diodes (LEDs), semiconductor lasers, detectors, photovoltaics
Learning Outcome
After successful completion of this course the students possess a basic knowledge of devices discussed, including their physical foundations, functional characteristics (e.g. current-voltage characteristics), and applications. This will provide them necessary knowledge to understand the components of modern semiconductor electronic and optoelectronic devices. Students are also able to
- Draw and explain energetics of various semiconductor junctions
- Explain the physical basis for current-voltage characteristics of different semiconductor electronic devices
- Explain the physical structure, typical operating ranges, and limitations of devices
- Explain how the different devices are used in technological applications
Preconditions
Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature
Courses and Schedule
| Type | SWS | Title | Lecturer(s) | Dates | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VU | 6 | Semiconductor Electronic and Photonic Devices | Finley, J. |
Wed, 09:00–12:00, ZNN 0.001 Thu, 13:00–14:30, ZNN 0.001 |
documents |
Learning and Teaching Methods
The method of instruction is through lectures, in which questions and discussion are encouraged. Fundamental concepts are further illustrated with modern technological examples.
Media
Lecture notes are written using a tablet and are complemented by powerpoint slides that provide figures and videos representing modern research examples, schematic illustrations, and representative data.
Literature
- Sze, "Physics of Semiconductor Devices", Wiley.
- Rosencher, "Optoelectronics", Cambridge University Press.
Module Exam
Description of exams and course work
In a written exam the learning outcome is tested using comprehension questions and sample problems.
In accordance with §12 (8) APSO the exam can be done as an oral exam. In this case the time duration is 25 minutes.
Exam Repetition
The exam may be repeated at the end of the semester.