Optoelectronics is a category of electronic components and devices that operate through the interaction between light (optical energy) and electrical signals. These products are designed to either convert electrical energy into light, convert light into electrical signals, or control and guide light using electronic means.
In electronic systems, optoelectronic components are commonly used as building blocks for light generation, light sensing, optical signal handling, and electrical-to-optical or optical-to-electrical interfacing.
- Light-emitting devices: Components that produce light from an electrical input.
- Light-detecting devices: Components that respond to incident light by generating or modulating an electrical output.
- Optical coupling and isolation devices: Components that transfer signals via light to provide electrical separation between circuits.
- Optical control elements: Devices that modulate, switch, or condition optical signals under electrical control.