Passively Q-switched, 5 mJ, Nd:YAG triangle slab laser pumped by 300 W quasi CW diode array

The aim of the work was to develop a compact, diode pumped, efficient Q-switched laser of 5 mJ output energy destined for range finding applications. Several designs with end pumping, side pumping of rods and slabs were developed in the last few years, however, the slab configuration seems to be the most efficient and reliable. More than 2 mJ of energy for electro-optic Q-switching and 1.5 mJ for passive Cr(4+):YAG Q switching in a multi reflection slab Nd:YAG laser for 100 W diode pump unit were demonstrated. In one bounce Nd:YAG slab laser similar output energy was achieved, however, the TEM/sub 0N/ output was observed for the highest pump levels. We used the similar slab configuration in the present work.