Abstract

Oscillation in a cavity using a four-wave mixing amplifier has been recently observed. This type of oscillator has properties very similar to those of a parametric oscillator but for the fact that the gain mechanism is due to a X⁽³⁾ non linear susceptibility rather than a X⁽²⁾. One of the consequences of this difference is that the gain mechanism and the intensity dependent refractive index (which also depends on X⁽³⁾) appears at the same order of perturbation and should be simultaneously considered in the analysis of the oscillation. In particular, this leads to the prediction that such an oscillator is intrinsically bistable.

© 1988 Optical Society of America