Integrated Optics: Technology and System Applications Converge

For many years, integrated optics was driven by technology and limited by applications; today, applications are driving the field and the growth potential is limited by only the performance and cost of integrated optics components. Using the history of integrated optics research as a backdrop, Alferness explores this critical technology.

by Rod C. Alferness

What Iintegrated Optics is Really Used For

INTEGRATED OPTICS COVERS A WIDE VARIETY OF DEVICE TYPES, MADE USING A WIDE ARRAY OF MATERIALS, MOST COMMONLY LiNbO₃, SILICA ON SILICON, ION EXCHANGE IN GLASS, InP/GaAs, AND POLYMERS. NOT ALL ARE COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE. THIS ARTICLE DISCUSSES DEVICES FABRICATED USING LiNbO₃ AND THEIR APPLICATIONS IN FIBER COMMUNICATION AND SENSING SYSTEMS.

by M.A. Powell and A.O. Donnell

Laser and LED Eye Hazards: Safety Standards

Guidelines for the safe use of lasers have evolved considerably since initially issued by defense research organizations in the 1960s. Today, very mature safety standards and regulations exist worldwide.

by David H. Sliney

Discovery Science Workshops: Homemade Grating Spectrometer

For the past four years I have joined other science, engineering, and medical professionals to participate in an annual event that you may wish to try in your own community—"Discovery Science Workshops." Organized by our local Junior Women's Club and Board of Education, this year's program was attended by over 500 elementary school students (about 25% of the entire elementary population) and their parents.

by H. Philip Stahl