Abstract

We compare weak-field theory to strong field numerical results for the bistable ring resonator with saturable photorefractive gain and loss.^1,2 Our weak-field model, which only considers the time dependence of the gratings and neglects the spatial dependence,³ captures an approximate picture of the two-crystal resonator. The basic model consists of two coupled complex equations for the gain and loss gratings. An analytic equation is derived for the self-pulsing period and amplitude for the case of zero detuning and near threshold gain. In this case, the system is analogous to a Van der Pol oscillator. We solve for the stationary points of the system and discuss their stability conditions. We also present computer simulation of the nonzero detuning case.

© 1990 Optical Society of America