Physics of Semiconductor Devices

3 Credits.

This course examines the physical principles underlying semiconductor device operation and the application of these principles to specific devices. Emphasis is placed on understanding device operation, rather than on circuit properties. Topics include elementary excitations in semiconductors such as phonons, photons, conduction electrons, and holes; charge and heat transport; carrier trapping and recombination; the pn junction; transistors; photodetectors; LEDs; and solar cells. Prerequisite(s): An undergraduate degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline. An undergraduate level familiarity with quantum mechanics would be helpful.