Stable resonators with a graded reflectivity output coupler for moderate gain lasers

Abstract

Summary form only given. The graded reflectivity mirror (GRM) is used with great success as the output coupler of unstable resonators. The feedback provided by this type of resonator goes down as the square of the magnification, which limits its use to high gain lasers. Numerical studies indicate that the GRM can improve the performance of moderate gain lasers running in the TEM/sub 00/ mode when used as the output coupler of a geometrically stable resonator. Numerical simulations have been conducted to evaluate the improvement brought about by the use of a GRM output coupler in TEM/sub 00/ lasers.