Abstract

In the past, solid-state lasers were typically pumped by high energy flashlamps. However, a comparison of emission and absorption spectra reveal only a fraction of the total output energy from the lamp source is available for optical excitation. A high optical pumping and overall system efficiency can be achieved utilizing diode lasers for pumping solid-state lasers. Previous efforts have centered on the diode-pumped Nd:YAG system. A variety of Nd host materials (crystalline and glass) exist which could be optically pumped by diode lasers with emission characteristics tailored to specific absorption properties. Performance predictions and laser design considerations are made for lasers utilizing diode pumping of alternate host materials. Specific emphasis is placed on overall efficiency and diode laser pump requirements.

© 1986 Optical Society of America