Iterative Fourier transform algorithm for phase-only pulse shaping

We demonstrate the adaptation of an iterative Fourier transform algorithm f or the calculation of theoretical spectral phase functions required for pul se shaping applications. The algorithm is used to determine the phase funct ions necessary for the generation of different temporal intensity pro les. The performance of the algorithm is compared to two exemplary standard appr oaches. i.e. a Genetic Algorithm and a combination of a Simplex Downhill an d a Simulated Annealing algorithm. It is shown that the iterative Fourier t ransform algorithm converges much faster than both alternative methods. (C) 2001 Optical Society of America.