Abstract

Continuous demand for compact and efficient laser sources operating in short-wavelength spectral range has resulted in dynamic development of both semiconductor and diode pumped solid state lasers. Undoubtedly, semiconductor lasers are presently the most intensively investigated field of active materials and a number of impressive results has been achieved, including violet GaN laser diodes. Nevertheless, solid state lasers are constantly considered as irreplaceable in all applications requiring excellent optical parameters of the beam together with high power levels. What is more, solid state lasers offer light emission in spectral ranges not available to semiconductor lasers, like blue-green and orange, obtained via harmonic generation or up-conversion phenomena.

© 2011 Optical Society of America