Spectral performance of monolithic holmium and thulium lasersFabry-Perot resonators have been used to demonstrate single-mode lasing of holmium and neodymium YAG. The previous demonstration in the holmium laser required TE cooling the crystal to -15 C in order to achieve threshold. The present study extends that result, demonstrating +25 C operation in a 1-mm thick plano/plano resonator. The experimental configuration of lasing both the holmium and thulium lasers used a 500-mW diode laser which was collimated, circularized, and focused into a beam radius of 60 microns. The single-frequency lasing spectrum of the holmium laser is shown. By adjusting the mirror reflectivity, the ability to control the laser's wavelength is demonstrated. This laser operated with 11 mW of optical power, a 57-percent slope efficiency, and 120-mW threshold vs absorbed diode power laser for the 60-micron beam radius. The thulium laser operated very efficiently at room temperature, but on seven longitudinal modes. The Tm:TAG laser exhibits typical characteristics of spatial hole burning not seen in the Ho:Tm:YAG for flat/flat resonators.
Document ID
19920068635
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Storm, Mark E. (ST Systems Corp. Hampton, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1991
Subject Category
Lasers And Masers
Meeting Information
Meeting: Topical Meeting of the OSA Proceedings on Advanced Solid-State Lasers