Theory
This section covers the physics, sensor architecture, and numerical methods behind every COMPASS simulation. The chapters are organized so you can read top-to-bottom or jump to the topic you need.
Use this section for concepts and mental models. Use Guide for runnable workflows, Reports for generated validation evidence, and API Reference for exact classes and configuration fields.
How this section is organized
| Chapter | Scope | Read this if you want to... |
|---|---|---|
| Basics | Non-mathematical orientation to CIS pixels, optics, and QE | Build intuition before the deeper theory pages |
| Optics | Wave optics fundamentals: fields, films, diffraction | Understand why a wave-optics solver is needed for sub-wavelength pixels |
| Image Sensor | BSI pixel structure, QE, full radiometric signal chain | Understand what is being modeled and how the result is interpreted |
| Simulation | RCWA, FDTD, TMM and their numerical behavior | Understand how the solver actually computes the answer |
Boundary Rules
| If you need... | Read here | Do not expect it to cover... |
|---|---|---|
| First intuition with minimal math | Basics | Solver algorithms or exact formulas |
| Equations and optical laws | Optics | The full pixel stack or API calls |
| Pixel components and performance metrics | Image Sensor | Numerical method derivations |
| Discretization, convergence, and stability | Simulation | Introductory CIS background |
What This Section Does Not Cover
- Installation and command-line workflows live in Guide.
- Generated benchmark evidence lives in Reports.
- API signatures and YAML schema details live in API Reference.
Suggested reading paths
Newcomer to image sensor optics
- Basics Overview -> What is a CMOS Image Sensor? -> Optics Primer -> Pixel Anatomy
- Light Basics -> Electromagnetic Waves -> Thin Film Optics -> Diffraction
- Image Sensor Optics -> Quantum Efficiency
- Simulation Overview -> pick one solver page
Engineer evaluating COMPASS for a project
- Image Sensor Optics -> Quantum Efficiency -> Signal Chain
- Simulation Overview -> RCWA vs FDTD -> Numerical Stability
Researcher implementing a new solver or analysis
TIP
If you have not used COMPASS before, start with Basics -> What is a CMOS Image Sensor? for a non-mathematical orientation, then come back here.