Skip To Main Content

Navigation

In this tutorial, we will simulate a Silicon on Insulator (SOI) dielectric waveguide to determine the transmission efficiency.

Not all tutorials are created equal. A truly excellent should include the following sections:

Use for infinitely repeating structures like photonic crystals or metasurface arrays.

These are the most authoritative sources for learning the software's workflow.

Changing the (default is 0.99) to a lower value like 0.9 or 0.5 can stabilize simulations containing high-index materials or complex metals. 2. Step-by-Step Simulation Workflow in Lumerical

After completing a tutorial (e.g., transmission through a gold nanorod), change one parameter—wavelength range, nanorod length, mesh resolution—and observe the effect. This builds intuition.

To advance from beginner to expert, focus on these areas found in the FDTD Reference Guide:

Some technical creators (e.g., "Photonics Academy," "NEOLab") offer PDF downloads linked to their video tutorials. While not official, these are often practical and beginner-friendly.

Accurate modeling of metals (plasmonics) and semiconductors. 2. Setting Up Your First Simulation

The tutorial then guides the user through setting up a simulation. This includes: