Programmable frequency reference for laser frequency stabilization, and arbitrary optical clock generator, using persistent spectral hole burning

摘要

Techniques for stabilizing a laser (110) at a selectable frequency include splitting an output beam from an electrically adjustable laser into a first beam (369) and a second beam (361). The second beam is transmitted through a modulator (112). Then the second beam is transmitted through a spectral hole burning material (310) onto a detector (120). The laser is electronically adjusted in response to a detector output from the detector which senses the changes in the modulated second beam after it passes through the spectral hole burning material.