Abstract

Optical parametric amplifiers (OPAs) have been used to extend the wavelength range available from amplified Ti:sapphire lasers [1,2]. These systems typically produce 100 fsec pulses throughout the visible and near infrared. Recently, there has been much interest in generating wavelengths beyond 3 μm, often by means of difference frequency mixing [3]. Direct generation of pulses from an OPA however, offers the potential for higher energy. We report, for the first time, generation of 3 to 5 μm pulses directly from a potassium niobate (KNbO₃) OPA pumped by an amplified Ti:sapphire laser [4].

© 1996 Optical Society of America