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Birefringence of solid-state laser media: broadband tuning discontinuities and application to laser line narrowing

Journal Article · · Opt. Lett.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1364/OL.14.000393· OSTI ID:6278767
Spectral consequences that result from using birefringent media with broadband gain inside of laser cavities containing polarizing elements are described. We show that the laser intensity is modulated as a function of the output frequency unless the cavity elements are carefully aligned so that their polarization axis coincides with a principal optical axis of the gain medium. Analysis of the tuning characteristics of a birefringent polarization-dependent gain medium is exploited to provide a simple method for line narrowing the laser output. By introduction of an intracavity birefringent compensator the narrow-band output can be continuously tuned. Experimental results for alexandrite lasers are presented.
Research Organization:
Allied-Signal Inc., Corporate Technology Center, P.O. Box 1021R, Morristown, New Jersey 07960
OSTI ID:
6278767
Journal Information:
Opt. Lett.; (United States), Journal Name: Opt. Lett.; (United States) Vol. 14:8; ISSN OPLED
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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