Abstract: A high efficiency edge-emitting LED is disclosed in which optical radiation produced in an active layer of the device leaves the device without being substantially absorbed by the material comprising the active layer. The device is constructed so that an optical waveguide is formed such that light produced in the active layer either leaves the device without any reflections or with a maximum of one reflection. The thickness of the active layer and the compositions of the active layer and confining layers are chosen so that electrical carriers are confined in the active layer while light produced in the active layer is not confined therein.