Definition of diode-pumped solid-state laser

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diode-pumped solid-state laser: A diode-pumped solid-state laser (DPSSL) is a type of laser system that uses semiconductor diode lasers to pump energy into a solid gain medium, resulting in the generation of coherent light. This technology is often employed to produce lasers with higher power outputs, improved efficiency, and better beam quality compared to traditional lamp-pumped or flashlamp-pumped solid-state lasers.

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Here is a breakdown of the key components and the process involved in a DPSSL:

Diode lasers: Semiconductor diode lasers serve as the pump source in DPSSLs. These diode lasers emit light when an electric current passes through them. The emitted light is absorbed by the gain medium to stimulate the emission of coherent light.

Solid gain medium: The gain medium in a DPSSL is typically a solid-state material such as a crystal (e.g., Nd:YAG - neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet), glass, or other rare-earth-doped materials. The gain medium absorbs the energy from the diode lasers and undergoes stimulated emission, producing coherent light at a specific wavelength.

Pumping mechanism: The diode lasers are carefully aligned to direct their output into the solid-state gain medium. The energy from the diode lasers excites the atoms or ions within the gain medium, causing them to emit photons through stimulated emission.

Cavity or resonator: The laser cavity or resonator consists of mirrors that reflect and amplify the coherent light produced within the gain medium. This creates a feedback loop, allowing the laser light to build up in intensity and form a highly collimated and coherent laser beam.

DPSSLs offer several advantages, including higher efficiency, compact size, and the ability to generate laser beams with excellent beam quality. They find applications in various fields, such as materials processing, medical procedures, telecommunications, and scientific research. The use of diode lasers as the pump source enhances the overall performance and reliability of solid-state lasers.

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Diode-Pumped Solid-State Lasers

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