Pulsed F-4(3/2) to I-4(9/2) operation of Nd lasers

Nd lasers operating on the F-4(3/2) to I-4(9/2) transition, usually at simi lar to 0.94 mu m, can provide a useful source for many applications when th ey operate efficiently. Both efficiency and energy output are substantially increased by two new approaches: improvement of the basic design and the u se of new laser materials, specifically, Nd:GYAG. Laser performance and gai n results for both Nd:YAG and Nd:GYAG lasers that operate on the F-4(3/2) t o I-4(9/2) transition are reported as a function of temperature. For the sa ke of comparison, results for these lasers when they operate on the F-4(3/2 ) to I-4(11/2) transition at 1.064 mu m are reported as well. In addition, preliminary second-harmonic generation results for this 0.94-mu m laser are reported. (C) 1999 Optical Society of America [S0740-3224(99)00512-3].