Page 259 - Tunable Lasers Handbook

Transition Metal

Solid-state Lasers

Norman P. Barnes
N4SA Langle? Research Center.
Humpton, I,i:r.sinia

1. INTRODUCTION

Solid-state lasers are becoming the laser of choice for many diverse applica-
tions. Selection of solid-state lasers is based on their performance capabilities,
such as available wavelengths, efficiency, tuning range, reliability, and pulse for-
mat flexibility. These performance capabilities can be directly attributed to spec-
troscopic properties that are often unique to solid-state lasers.
Solid-state lasers can be subdivided into two broad categories, transition
metal lasers and lanthanide series lasers. The spectroscopic and performance
properties of these two broad categories of solid-state lasers are considerably
different. Transition metal lasers have active atoms that come from the fourth
row in the periodic table of the elements, whereas lanthanide series lasers have
active atoms that come from the sixth row. Although many properties of these
two categories are similar, spectral absorption and emission characteristics and,
thus, tunability are significantly different. Transition metal lasers ar'e usually tun-
able over a relatively wide spectral range, whereas the tuning range of lanthanide
series lasers is relatively limited. It is the intent of this chapter to cconcentrate on
the transition metal lasers.

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