Amplitude noise reduction for optically pumped modelocked lasers

摘要

Amplitude noise is dramatically reduced in an optically pumped modelocked laser arrangement by incorporating an intra-cavity (219) or external cavity (240) mode selection element with a continuous-wave pump laser (21) coupled optically to a modelocked laser (40). The mode selection element causes a light beam (23) generated from the pump laser to operate nominally at a single frequency, that is, substantially a single longitudinal mode. Mode selection may be realized with an air-spaced or solid material Fabry-Perot etalon.