SINGLE-MODE TUNABLE TI-SAPPHIRE LASER OVER A WIDE FREQUENCY-RANGE

We report a design of a tunable Ti:sapphire laser capable of operating in the range between 700 and 800 nm. The continuous, single-mode tuni ng is achieved by a pseudoexternal cavity consisting of highly reflect ive mirrors and a diffraction grating. The advantages of this laser in clude low operational threshold, a simple configuration that involves only four optical elements, and fine-tuning capabilities. The single l ongitudinal made of operation was demonstrated at wavelengths between 695 and 725 nm and was limited by the choice of end mirrors in the las er cavity. (C) 1997 Optical Society of America.