Abstract

A set of rate equations is developed for the operation of an ir laser in passive Q-switching. This set of equations includes the effect of rotational hole burning in the saturable absorber and the high gain and nonuniform losses in the cavity of the laser. Using these equations a set of criteria is developed, which states conditions on the parameters of the laser and the absorber that have to be fulfilled in order that the laser–absorber system should operate in pulses. Experimental verification of the criteria is given. The three phases of the operation of the laser (cw, pulses, and zero output) are depicted on a phase diagram that emphasizes the dependence of the operation on the parameters of the laser and the absorber.

© 1976 Optical Society of America

Passive Q-switching of a CO₂ laser by CH₃F: an analysis

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