Single-Frequency, Thin-Film-Tuned, 0.6W, Diode-Pumped Nd:YVO\u3csub\u3e4\u3c/sub\u3e Laser

Abstract

Application of a metallic thin-film selector to the single-frequency oscillation of a diode-pumped Nd:YVO4 laser has been investigated theoretically and experimentally. We show that a chromium thin-film selector with a thickness between 8 and 9 nm provides single-frequency output within a power range of 0.6W. Single-frequency operation, slow smooth turning, or chirping was realized by the output coupler movement with a piezoceramic transducer. Chuirping at a repetition rate of 0.5 kHz in the 0.5-10-GHz range was achieved. Physical and technical limitations caused by the wide-gain bandwidith, thermal effects, and mechanical vibrations of cavity elements are discussed