A single frequency Nd:YAG ring laser pumped by laser diodes

The design and operation of a diode-pumped Nd:YAG ring laser is described. The laser is shown to be a highly versatile device, capable of efficient generation of both the fundamental and second harmonic frequencies, CW and Q-switched. Single-frequency outputs in excess of 540 mW at 1.06 μm and 18.9 mW at 532 nm output were obtained, whereas multi-longitudinal mode Q-switched operation produced 22.4 μJ per pulse at 5 kHz in the fundamental and 7.3 μJ power pulse at 532 nm.