Single-diode end-pumped Nd:YAG laser

Experimental results on the first miniature Nd:YAG laser end-pumped by a single incoherent infrared-emitting diode are given. Laser operation was verified by measurements of relaxation oscillations, angular divergence, wavelength, and nonlinear output. In order to emit in the 0.81- μm pump band of Nd:YAG, the GaAs
1-x
P
x
diode required cooling to 88 K (-185°C). Cooling the diode increased its efficiency while cooling the rod decreased the pump power necessary to reach threshold. With both laser mirrors highly reflecting at 1.06 μm, the maximum pulse power
P_{D}^{th}
emitted by the diode at threshold was 6.2 ± 1.2 mW. The diode power required for laser threshold at room temperature was derived and compared with more recent experiments. Miniature size and long-lived solid-state components make this laser attractive for further development.