Versatile digital approach to laser frequency comb stabilization

Abstract

We demonstrate the use of a flexible digital servo system for the optical stabilization of both the repetition rate and carrier-envelope offset frequency of a laser frequency comb. The servo system is based entirely on a low-cost field programmable gate array, simple electronic components, and existing open-source software. Utilizing both slow and fast feedback actuators of a commercial mode-locked laser frequency comb, we maintain cycle-slip free locking of optically-derived beatnotes over a 30 hour period and measure residual phase noise at or below ~0.1 rad, corresponding to <100 attosecond timing jitter on the optical phase locks. This stability is sufficient for high-precision frequency comb applications and indicates comparable performance to existing frequency control systems. The modularity of this system allows for it to be easily adapted to suit the servo actuators of a wide variety of laser frequency combs and continuous-wave lasers, reducing cost and complexity barriers, and enabling digital phase control in a wide range of settings.