This module gives an introduction to optical time domain reflectometry. This scheme monitors fiber optical links for changes in transmission quality or locations of damages to the fiber by evaluating backscattered signals. It is an important routine employed by all major telecommunication companies to check the integrity of optical links.

Ring resonator waveguide structures are useful for adding or dropping information in networks switches. Their principle of operation is investigated with a microwave-frequency plug-and-play model (10 GHz).

Transmission and filtering properties are then experimentally verified with a network analyzer. Finally, finite-element-simulations are performed for visualization and a cross-check with theory.

Highest-data-rate laser diodes are key components in optical communications engineering. This experiment gives insights into the optical and electronic properties of laser diodes.

Semiconductor photodiodes of various types are evaluated for their effectivity in detecting weak light-pulses at optical communication wavelengths (800 nm to 1550 nm). They are important for error-free conversion of optical data back into the electrical domain.

High refractive index contrast waveguides are used in integrated optical devices. Typical single mode planar and stripe waveguides are designed and characterized by beam propagation simulations with an industrial-standard high-frequency design-suite. This gives a graphic understanding of the actual transmission of light as an electromagnetic wave, extension of optical fields and of what is meant by “optical mode”.