Abstract: A free-electron laser enclosed in a waveguide of small transverse dimension may offer the opportunity to develop a compact source of coherent radiation in the far-infrared (100 $mu - 100 $mu) region of the spectrum. The presence of the waveguide significantly affects the operation of the laser, qualitatively altering its spontaneous emission spectrum, its tuning characteristics, and its gain curve. We discuss the effects of the waveguide, including the opportunities it offers in terms of tapering, tuning, and slip reduction, and the limitations it imposes. We discuss the implications for compact free-electron lasers.!14
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