Introduction to GaAs devices
In this chapter, the types of GaAs devices will be briefly defined and introduced for the purpose of referring to the types of applications of GaAs devices. This introduction will not include details of the physical principles or the operation of the devices. GaAs devices are categorised broadly by whether they are electronic devices or light-based (photonic) devices. Electronic devices are of three basic types: bipolar transistors, field effect transistors and diodes. All three types have important commercial applications. The purpose of this introduction is to provide a level of understanding useful for a discussion of applications of GaAs devices. Four broad categories of photonic devices will be introduced: light emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes (LDs), photodetectors and waveguides. As for electronic devices, a rudimentary introduction of device types is useful for a discussion of applications of GaAs devices.
Introduction to GaAs devices, Page 1 of 2
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