Optoelectronics

Are you working on optoelectronic devices and need components to complete the task? Whether your project uses LEDs and you need an optocoupler or you're fixing a solar powered streetlight, you'll find that optoelectronics is key to your success.

Whatever components you need, you'll find what you're looking for at RS. We stock products by leading names in the industry and each product in the range is made to the highest standard.

Read on to find out more about optoelectronics.

What is optoelectronics?

Optoelectronics is the study and application of the communication between electronics and light-emitting or light-detecting devices. It includes the design and manufacture of devices, classed as optoelectronic devices, that transform electrical energy into light and vice versa. This process is carried out using semiconductors.

How do optoelectronic devices work?

Optoelectronics is the study and application of devices that detect, source, and control light. These devices comprise semiconductor alloys layered over substrates. As the light - or laser - is activated, different layers of the semiconductors are placed on the substrate.

Examples of optoelectronic devices

Optoelectronics is a large and growing field, and this means that the list of optoelectronic devices and their components is growing all the time. From LED lighting systems to lit-up information displays, this technology is evident in an array of settings.

Some of the most common optoelectronic devices include optical fibers, LED traffic lights, photodiodes, and solar cells.

What is the composition of an optoelectronic communication system?

Standard optoelectronic communication circuits feature the following components:

• Light source

LEDs and laser diodes are typically used as the light source and they generate electrical signals that are used in the communication system. The light from the source is the input for the optical transmitter.

• Optical transmitter

This is the part of the optoelectronic communication system that converts the received signal from the light source (the LED or laser diode) to an optical output.

• Optical waveguide

The optical waveguide guides electromagnetic waves in the optical range. Common types of waveguides include the optical fiber and transparent dielectricwaveguides.

• Optocoupler

The optocoupler - which is also known as the photocoupler or opto-isolator - is a key optoelectronic component in the system. It transfers the electrical signals between two isolated circuits through the transmission channel. This channel may be an optical fiber or free space. It also provides high insulation voltage.

• Transducer

The transducer adapts the signal in a way that's proportional to the incident light. The signal then undergoes further coupling through the channel.

• Optical detector

Photo-diodes and photo-transistors are usually used as optical detectors. The incident light is converted by the light detector into electrical signal. The signal generated is either a photo-current or a photo-voltage.

Where are optoelectronic devices used?

The most common setting for optoelectronic devices is in the world of information technology. They apply to processing, transmission and memory, among other areas in this field.

Some of the most common applications include in LEDs, which can be found in everything from watches to household appliances; solar cells, which are used in solar power controllers and solar panels; and optical fibers, which are used in telecommunications.

Why choose RS for your optoelectronic devices and components?

At RS, we stock a selection of optoelectronics that are designed to help you. Whether you need an optocoupler or laser diode, you will find what you need here. We are a leading authorized distributor in North America and stock products by well-known names including Luna Optoelectronics, Dialight, and Kingbright.

Should you have any questions, our team is here to help. Get in touch and we can guide you through the products. You can also find advice in our expert content hub.