ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.
ECX5243–Physical and Opto Electronics
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering Technology
The Open University of Sri Lanka

Tutor Marked Assignment 2 – 2014/2015

Answer to parts A, B and C. Please select questions according to the first digit of your registration
number as given below.

First digit of the registration number Questions to be answered

1,2 Q1,Q5,Q7
3,4 Q2,Q4,Q8
5,6,7 Q3,Q6,Q9

Make a Power Point presentation which gives the solutions to the selected questions. A brief discussion
of the theory based on which you prepared the answer should be also included in the presentation.
Bring your presentation in a pen drive/CD to be presented on the appropriate presentation date.

Since the main idea of solving above problems is to get familiar with the main concepts, underlying
theory of the particular device model addressed in these questions, other than xfinding the numerical
answer/deriving the equation as requested in above questions allocated to you, in your presentation
you should also discuss the relevance of the particular question to the mathematical model of the
device under consideration.

References : Optical Fiber Communications, 3rd edition by John M. Senior

PART A
Basic theories related to optical fiber communication

Q1.
(i) Using simple Ray theory, describe the mechanism for the transmission of light within an optical
fiber.
(ii) Briefly discuss with the aid of a suitable diagram what is meant by the acceptance angle for an
optical fiber. Show how this is related to the fiber numerical aperture and the refractive indices
for the fiber core and cladding.
(iii) An optical fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a cladding with refractive index of 1.59.
Determine:
a. The acceptance angle for the fiber in water which has a refractive index of 1.33.
b. The critical angle at the core cladding interface

Q2.
(i) Describe with the aid of simple ray diagrams :
(a) The multimode step index fiber
(b) The single mode step index fiber
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of fiber for use as an optical
signal.
(ii) Explain what is meant by a graded index optical fiber, giving an expression for the possible
refractive index profile. Using simple ray theory concepts, discuss the transmission of light
through the fiber.

(iii) A multimode graded index fiber has an acceptance angle in air of 80. Estimate the relative
refractive index difference between the core axis and the cladding when the refractive index at
the core axis is 1.52.

Q3.
(i) Explain the concept of electromagnetic modes in relation to a planar optical waveguide.
(ii) Discuss the modifications that may be made to electromagnetic mode theory in a planar
waveguide in order to describe optical propagation in a cylindrical fiber.
(iii) A graded index fiber with a parabolic index profile supports the propagation of 742 guided
modes. The fiber has a numerical aperture in air of 0.3 and a core diameter of 70 µm.
Determine the wavelength of the light propagating in the fiber.
(iv) Further estimate the maximum diameter of the fiber which gives single-mode operation at
the same wavelength.

Section B – Optical signal degradation

Q4.
(i) The mean power launched into an optical fiber link is 1.5mW and the fiber has an
attenuation of 0.5dBkm-1. Determine the maximum possible link length without repeaters
(assuming lossless connectors) when the minimum mean optical power level required at the
detector is 2µW.

(ii) Discuss absorption losses in optical fibers, comparing and contrasting the intrinsic and
extrinsic absorption mechanisms.

(iii) Briefly describe linear scattering losses in optical fibers with regard to
i. Rayleigh scattering
ii. Mie scattering

Q5.
(i) Describe the mechanism of intermodal dispersion in a multimode step index fiber.
(ii) Show that the total broadening of a light pulse δTs due to intermodal dispersion in a
multimode step index fiber may be given by;
‫)ܣܰ(ܮ‬ଶ
ߜܶ௦ =
2݊ଵ ܿ

Where L is the fiber length, NA is the numerical aperture of the fiber, n1 is the core
refractive index and c is the velocity of the light in a vacuum.
(iii) A multimode step index fiber has a numerical aperture of 0.2 and a core refractive index
of 1.47. Estimate the bandwidth-length product for the fiber assuming only intermodal
dispersion and a return to zero code when:
a. there is no mode coupling between the guided modes
b. mode coupling between the guided modes gives a characteristic length equivalent
to 0.6 of the actual fiber length.
Q6.
(i) Discuss the dispersion mechanisms with regard to single mode fibers indicating the
dominating effects. Hence describe how intramodal dispersion may be minimized within
the single-mode region.
(ii) A single mode step index fiber has a zero dispersion wavelength of 1.29 µm and exhibits
total first order dispersion of 3.5 ps nm-1 km-1 at wavelength of 1.32µm.
Determine the total first-order dispersion in the fiber at a wavelength of 1.54µm.

Section C - Optical Sources and detectors

Q7.
(i) Briefly outline the general requirements for a source in optical fiber communications.
(ii) With the aid of suitable diagrams, discuss the principles of operation of the injection
laser.
(iii) An injection laser has a GaAs active region with a band gap energy of 1.43 eV. Estimate
the wavelength of optical emission from the device and determine its line width in hertz
when the measured spectral width is 0.1nm.

Q8. (i) Describe with the aid of suitable diagrams the mechanism giving the emission of light
from and LED. Discuss the effects of this mechanism on the properties of the LED in
relation to its use as an optical source for communications.
(ii) Briefly outline the advantages and drawbacks of the LED in comparison with the
injection laser for use as a source in optical fiber communications.
(iii) The power generated internally within a double-heterojunction LED is 28.4 mW at a
drive current of 60 mA. Determine the peak emission wavelength from the device when
the radiative and nonradiative recombination lifetimes of the minority carriers in the
active region are equal.

Q9.
(i) Explain the detection process in the p-n photodiode. Compare this device with
the p-i-n photodiode.
(ii) Define the quantum efficiency and the responsivity of a photodetector.
Derive an expression for the responsivity of an intrinsic photodeterctor in terms of the
quantum efficiency of the device and the wavelength of the incident radiation.
Determine the wavelength at which the quantum efficiency and the responsivity are
equal.
(iii) A p-n photodiode has a quantum efficiency of 50% at a wavelength of 0.9 µm.
Calculate:
(a) Its responsivity at 0.9 µm.
(b) The received optical power if the mean photocurrent is 10-6 A;
(c) The corresponding number of received photons at this wavelength.