Abstract
The development of a high power solid state laser poses a serious non-trivial task. Several different elements combine to form this complex quantum device. Each of the elements of the laser receives sufficient description herein. The pump source, laser cavity, laser media, and non-linear optic crystal together comprise the inner workings of the device and receive most of the attention. The supporting structure, such as the cooling mechanism and lens holders, receives detailed attention as well. The research begins with an investigation into the laser cavity performance characteristics. This study reveals the stability, mode shape, estimated output power, and line-width. A finite difference method numerical simulation utilizes this information to determine the temperature distribution within the laser media. Experiments are performed to characterize the laser diode spectral output and laser crystal response to the pump radiation. Finally, the thesis presents a simple technique to image infrared radiation using a digital camera. An economical summary of the project accompanies the investigative research. Commercial systems exist which provide quality high power green light. This summary shows the major costs involved with the research. From this summary it is left to the reader to evaluate his or her own financial situation. An extensive bibliography, parts description, calibration procedures, calibration standards, startup and shutdown procedures, and alignment procedures accompany the research and economic summary. This information is intended to instruct on the use of the supporting equipment, as well as the development of high power lasers. This thesis presents only the basic, elementary information of laser development, while deeper topics of laser theory are covered by the referring literature.
Barr, Aaron Maxwell (2003). Development of a frequency doubled high powered laser diode end-pumped Nd:YVO₄/LBO laser. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -2003 -THESIS -B36.