The frequency shifting of laser light by electro-optic techniques

Abstract

In velocity measurements by the laser Doppler method, a requirement exists for changing the frequency of one light beam with respect to another derived from the same source. This is particularly useful for the determination of the sign of a velocity. The required frequency shifting or single side-band generation can be accomplished by the use of electro-optical effects and a number of possible arrangements are discussed. Trials were made using Kerr cells and electro-optic crystals and single side-band generation demonstrated by a simple Doppler beating experiment. If a low efficiency can be tolerated as in Doppler beating with a reference beam, the production of a pure frequency shifted beam is not difficult up to frequencies of a few megahertz. The differential Doppler or fringe system however requires shifted and non-shifted beams of equal intensity and hence high efficiency conversion is imperative. Radio-frequency driving power requirements may also be a limitation. The theoretical efficiencies of various multi-cell electro-optic arrangements have been calculated as a function of R.F. excitation. The possible efficiency approaches unity as the number of cells is increased.