Custom laser resonators using graded-phase mirrors: circular geometry

The properties of a new class of resonators using graded-phase mirrors designed for delivering a prescribed intensity output profile are analyzed in the circular geometry. It is shown that the diffraction losses of super-Gaussian custom resonators strongly favor the single-transverse-mode operation, and optimum design parameters are suggested. Simulations indicate that these resonators behave reasonably well in the presence of perturbations such as thermal lensing fluctuations or gain saturation.<
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