Abstract

We have demonstrated for the first time long-term stable operation of a continuous wave optical parametric oscillator (CW OPO) pumped by a distributed bragg reflector (DBR) diode laser. We have also demonstrated the first use of a diode-pumped OPO in spectroscopic measurements. Continuous frequency scans through absorption features of Carbon Monoxide have been performed using the 2.3-µm OPO output. The OPO operates on a single longitudinal mode, with a bandwidth of 5MHz and an output power over lmW in both signal and idler wavelengths. Continuous frequency scans of 9GHz have been demonstrated. Extension of the operating range of the OPO throughout the 1.1 to 3.6µm range will make such devices highly promising as room-temperature, low-cost, compact mid-infrared sources for numerous detection and spectroscopic applications.

© 2000 Optical Society of America