Frequency dependence in RF discharge excited waveguide CO2lasers

The performance characteristics of RF discharge excited CO
2
waveguide lasers are investigated as a function of the frequency of the power source in the range 50-250 MHz. In addition, the influence of frequency on the spatial and electrical properties of the discharge are studied. The laser power output, which is seen to peak at a particular frequency, may be correlated with the achievement of optimum (
E/N
) values for energy transfer to the upper laser level. The form and distribution of striations, parallel to the electrodes, are seen to be a major factor influencing laser properties.