Cavity-configuration-dependent nonlinear dynamics in Kerr-lens mode-lockedlasers

We determined theoretically that the nonlinear dynamics of a Gaussian beam is configuration dependent in a general cavity. This prediction was confirm ed by numerical simulation in a Kerr-lens mode-locked cavity for which the self-focusing effect is considered the nonlinear source in both the spatial and the temporal domains. Period doubling, tripling, and quadrupling can o ccur in these configurations with the products of generalized cavity G para meters equal to 1/2, 1/4 (or 3/4), and (2 +/- root 2)/4, respectively. The dynamic behavior of the cavity beam will become irregular if the nonlinear effect is further increased. (C) 2000 Optical Society of America [S0740-322 4(00)00708-6] OCIS codes: 140.3410, 140.4050, 260.5950, 140.1540.