Abstract

Increasing data acquisition rates in metrology applications based on optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) can accelerate measurement processes. To achieve this, flash-lamp systems with low pulse repetition frequencies of 10–100 Hz used as a pump source for the OPOs could be replaced by diode-pumped solid-state lasers in the kHz range. We demonstrate a 969 nm pumped Yb:YAG ceramic laser yielding 21.6 W output power, 12.5 mJ pulse energy, and excellent beam quality. Fluorescence feedback control, developed from gain dynamics simulations in two operating regimes, allows stable operation at 6.7 ns from 20 to 5000 Hz. Third harmonic generation to 343 nm yields 3.24 W at 2 kHz. The system provides constant pulse duration in a huge repetition rate interval, which is beneficial for pump sources for future metrology devices.

© 2016 Optical Society of America

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