Laser Fundamentals: Principles and Applications for Engineers

This lecture introduces the fundamentals of lasers, focusing on their principles and applications in engineering. The instructor outlines the course structure, including the examination format, which consists of an oral exam and quizzes. The importance of lasers in various fields such as telecommunications, medical applications, and materials processing is emphasized. The lecture covers the historical development of lasers, starting from Einstein's theory of stimulated emission to the first practical laser created by Maiman. Key concepts such as light-matter interaction, amplification, and the mechanisms of laser operation are discussed. The instructor explains the significance of understanding the lasing threshold, gain, and the materials used in laser construction. The lecture also highlights the various applications of lasers, including LiDAR technology and optical storage, illustrating their ubiquitous presence in modern technology. By the end of the lecture, students are expected to grasp the basic principles of laser operation and their relevance in engineering applications.