An automatic tracer of characteristic curves for optically pumped lasers

Abstract

Apparatus for automatically recording photographically points on plots of laser output energy against excitation energy is described. A variable pause between shots is possible and the excitation pulse length and energy range can be varied to suit requirements. The detector described measures the fluorescence from a ruby used to integrate laser light: more conventional detectors can be used but may give an increased scatter of points or not hold their absolute calibration. Standard errors of 2% in threshold and slope are obtained with an absolute accuracy to 4%.