semiconductor physics and Devices

Semester 2: Advanced Topics in Solid State Physics

Course Outline: Semiconductor Physics and Devices (Second Semester)

Instructor:
Course Title:Semiconductor Physics and Devices
Semester: Second Semester
Duration: 16 weeks

Course Objectives:

The second semester of "Semiconductor Physics and Devices" focuses on advanced concepts in semiconductor devices, optoelectronics, power electronics, and integrated circuits. The course will cover the theory, design, and practical applications of semiconductor materials and devices in modern electronics, energy systems, and communication technologies. By the end of the semester, students should have a strong understanding of semiconductor device operation, fabrication techniques, and applications in various fields.

Course Structure:

• Week 1: Semiconductors - Introduction and Intrinsic Properties

  • Overview of intrinsic semiconductors

  • Band structure and carrier concentration

  • Temperature dependence of carrier concentration

• Week 2: Extrinsic Semiconductors - Doping and Carrier Dynamics

  • Doping techniques and types (n-type and p-type)

  • Carrier concentration in extrinsic semiconductors

  • Fermi level shifts and their effect on conductivity

• Week 3: p-n Junctions - Basic Structure and Operation

  • Formation of p-n junctions

  • Depletion region and built-in potential

  • I-V characteristics in forward and reverse bias

• Week 4: Diodes - Operation and Applications

  • Ideal and real diodes

  • Zener diodes, LEDs, and photodiodes

  • Applications in rectification, voltage regulation, and light emission

• Week 5: Transistors - Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs)

  • Structure and operation of BJTs

  • Common-emitter, common-base, and common-collector configurations

  • BJT as an amplifier and switch

• Week 6: Field Effect Transistors (FETs)

  • Structure and operation of JFETs and MOSFETs

  • I-V characteristics and regions of operation

  • Applications of MOSFETs in switching and amplification

• Week 7: Transistors - Applications in Amplification and Switching

  • Amplification: Common-emitter and common-source configurations

  • Power amplifiers and frequency response

  • Transistor switching applications in digital circuits

• Week 8: Optoelectronic Devices – Photodetectors, Solar Cells, and LEDs

  • Photodiodes and phototransistors in light detection

  • Solar cells: Photovoltaic effect and energy conversion efficiency

  • Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes

• Week 9: Semiconductor Fabrication – Growth, Doping, and Lithography

  • Wafer preparation and crystal growth

  • Doping techniques: Diffusion and ion implantation

  • Photolithography and etching processes in IC fabrication

• Week 10: Advanced Semiconductor Devices – MOSFETs, IGBTs, and Tunnel Diodes

  • Scaling challenges in MOSFETs and FinFETs

  • Insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) and their applications

  • Tunnel diodes and negative resistance characteristics

• Week 11: Semiconductor Memories – RAM, Flash, and Emerging Memory Technologies

  • Random Access Memory (DRAM, SRAM)

  • Flash memory: NAND and NOR types

  • Emerging memory technologies: MRAM, RRAM, and Phase-Change Memory (PCM)

• Week 12: Semiconductor Devices in Communication Systems

  • Diodes and transistors in modulation and demodulation

  • RF transistors in amplification and communication

  • Optical communication systems using lasers and photodetectors

• Week 13: Power Electronics – Semiconductor Devices in Power Systems

  • Power MOSFETs, IGBTs, and thyristors in power control

  • DC-DC converters and inverters for power conversion

  • Thermal management and efficiency in power electronics

• Week 14: Semiconductor Sensors – Types, Principles, and Applications

  • Temperature, pressure, and gas sensors

  • Optical sensors and biosensors

  • Applications in automotive, medical, and environmental monitoring

• Week 15: Integrated Circuits (ICs) and Fabrication Techniques

  • Overview of integrated circuits (ICs)

  • IC fabrication: Photolithography, doping, and etching

  • Scaling challenges, packaging, and testing of ICs

• Week 16: Review and Final Exam Preparation

  • Comprehensive review of key topics

  • Practice problems and solutions

  • Final exam preparation and structure

Assessment:

• Homework Assignments: 30%

• Midterm Exam: 25%

• Final Exam: 35%

• Class Participation and Quizzes: 10%

Textbook:

• Charles Kittel, Introduction to Solid State Physics (8th Edition)

Suggested Reading:

• Research papers and current articles on semiconductor device advancements and fabrication techniques.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the semester, students will:

• Understand the operation of semiconductor devices such as diodes, transistors, and optoelectronics.

• Be familiar with the fabrication processes of integrated circuits.

• Analyze and design circuits for power electronics and communication systems.

• Apply semiconductor sensors in real-world applications such as environmental monitoring and medical devices.

This outline provides a roadmap for students to explore the essential principles of solid-state physics and semiconductor technology, with a focus on both theory and practical applications.