All those devices that are used in controlling or manipulation of lights are singled as
optics and optical components. These devices install various electrical or electronic means as in the case of lasers, diodes, photo multipliers and optoelectronic sensors. Sometimes they use material means, for example lenses, filters, beam splitters, mirrors, diffusers, plates, prisms, and windows. The optical and optics components are used for the purpose of bending, splitting, diffusing, reflecting and altering the focus of light wavelength. These devices convert the spectrum of the light and transform the light patterns into electric wavelength by modifying its direction and path.
Types of Optics and Optical ComponentsThe optical and optic devices can be classifies as per their uses. The
Fiber optics are used for conducting, amplifying, attenuating, multiplexing, and switching light signals. These include a wide array of optics and optical components like Fiber Optic Attenuators and Fiber Optic Cable. The
lasers equipments on the other hand produce intense beam of monochromatic, coherent light and work on the methodology of Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Their examples include diode lasers and cutting lasers. Then there are the light sources that commonly use bulbs, LED and lamps to create, manipulate and detect light. Further, the
optical assemblies and
optical components incorporate lenses, polarizers, mirrors, beam splitters, windows, prisms to convert light pattern to electrical wavelengths. As far as the case of optoelectronic is concerned, it includes all those devices that emit, modulate, transmit, or sense light by electrical means such as LEDs,
photo diodes and opto couplers. Their examples include light emitting diodes, modulators,
photo voltaic cells,
photo diodes,
power and energy meters and
radiometers.
Industry Trends & ScopeThe present global situation is the best time to evolve the optical and optics industry in the similar fashion that was applied in case of computer technology. The optics and optical market has seen explosive growth in the recent times but the global recession has checked its growth. The present scenario maybe be sending vibes for industry consolidation but the optical and optical manufacturers and suppliers are of the opinion that there are plenty of opportunities that are available. The gross margin of the industry was recorded at 20% and it is being fore casted that in the coming years market for optical components should grow to reach $8 billion from $3 billion at present. By 2012 the optics market is aimed to reach a whooping $350 million. Although the optical network industry has lost 45% to 50% of its value over the last 5 years but the situation still seems to be in control as far as being quoted by the Optical Society of America.
The scope of these optics and optical components are very expansive. They can be used as interference filters and mirrors in certain cases while can also used for interference effects in thin layers. Optical component accessories are used with lenses and mirrors, mounts, reflectors, windows, optical coatings, choppers and shutters, filters, light guides and a variety of other optical system elements. They have specific applications in microscopes and telescopes as well.
or 
