Gigahertz frequency hopping in an optical phase-locked loop for Raman lasers

Abstract

Raman lasers are essential in atomic physics, and the development of portable devices has posed requirements for time-division multiplexing of Raman lasers. We demonstrate an innovative gigahertz frequency hopping approach of a slave Raman laser within an optical phase-locked loop (OPLL), which finds practical application in an atomic gravimeter, where the OPLL frequently switches between near-resonance lasers and significantly detuned Raman lasers. The method merges the advantages of rapid and extensive frequency hopping with the OPLL’s inherent low phase noise, and exhibits a versatile range of applications in compact laser systems, promising advancements in portable instruments.