A resonator setup applying a double-sided diode end-pumped configuration and an electro-optical Q-switch for efficient generation of 4 mJ pulses (< 60 ns fwhm) at 935 nm from Nd:YGG is presented, to our knowledge for the first time. The optical-optical efficiency is 9 % (absorbed pump light to laser out). High quality crystals have been investigated, showing high damage threshold, high efficiency and good optical properties permitting Q-switched mode of operation. Experimental small signal gain data coincide with spectroscopic measurements. For vapour detection frequency stable single mode operation is required. Injection seeding with a single frequency cw-signal has been successfully achieved. Frequency control mechanisms are currently under investigation. The direct generation of 935 nm radiation simplifies future LIDAR systems significantly compared to current approaches based on OPO, Raman or Ti:Sapphire technology.

Date Published: 19 February 2007
PDF: 8 pages
Proc. SPIE 6451, Solid State Lasers XVI: Technology and Devices, 64510I (19 February 2007); doi: 10.1117/12.708220

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 6451:
Solid State Lasers XVI: Technology and Devices
Hanna J. Hoffman; Ramesh K. Shori; Norman Hodgson, Editor(s)