Abstract

A novel end pumping configuration for small-sized diode-pumped lasers using a miniature Nd:YAG slab without focusing lenses is proposed. Using total reflection on the slab surfaces, the pump light is confined to the laser mode volume. In the fundamental oscillation, a TEM₀₀ output power of 210 mW is obtained with a laser diode power of 890 mW. Furthermore, we realized a small-sized (10 mm φ × 17.5 mm) diode-pumped green laser using this configuration. An output power of 4.4 mW is obtained with a laser diode power of 440 mW.

© 1992 Optical Society of America