Open AccessDecreased oscillation threshold of a continuous-wave OPO using a semiconductor gain mirror
Author(s) -
Mikael Siltanen,
Tomi Lein,
Lauri Halonen
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.19.019675
Subject(s) - optics , optical parametric oscillator , physics , oscillation (cell signaling) , semiconductor laser theory , wavelength , beam (structure) , signal (programming language) , laser , semiconductor , optoelectronics , genetics , computer science , biology , programming language
We have constructed a singly resonant, continuous-wave optical parametric oscillator, where the signal beam resonates and is amplified by a semiconductor gain mirror. The gain mirror can significantly decrease the oscillation threshold compared to an identical system with conventional mirrors. The largest idler beam tuning range reached by changing the pump laser wavelength alone is from 3.6 to 4.7 µm. The single mode output power is limited but can be continuously scanned for at least 220 GHz by adding optical components in the oscillator cavity for increased stability.