Implementation of a spatial light modulator for intracavity beam shaping

Abstract

In this paper we outline the steps necessary to create a laser with an intra-cavity spatial light modulator (SLM) for transverse mode control. We employ a commercial SLM as the back reflector in an otherwise conventional diode-pumped solid state laser. We show that the geometry of the liquid crystal (LC) arrangement strongly influences the operating regime of the laser, from nominally amplitude-only mode control for twisted nematic LCs to nominally phase-only mode control for parallel-aligned LCs. We demonstrate both operating regimes experimentally and discuss the potential advantages of and improvements to this new technology.