Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026

06:42
Generation and Coherent Control of Pulsed Quantum Frequency Combs
Published on: June 8, 2018
Short-pulse properties of optical frequency comb generators
R P Kovacich1, U Sterr, H R Telle
1Department of Physics, University of Western Australia, Nedlands 6907, WA, Australia. rkovacic@ieee.org
Applied Optics
|March 20, 2008
Summary
This study explores optical frequency combs, generating picosecond pulses. Cavity detuning and dispersion significantly alter pulse properties, impacting width and spacing.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Laser Physics
Background:
- Optical frequency combs offer unique pulse generation capabilities.
- Conventional picosecond lasers have limitations in pulse property control.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the influence of optical resonator detuning and electro-optic crystal dispersion on picosecond pulse characteristics.
- Analyze the tunability and properties of high-repetition-rate picosecond pulses from an electro-optic modulator-based frequency comb.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulation of the optical frequency comb generator.
- Intensity autocorrelation measurements of generated picosecond pulses.
- Analysis of pulse width, pulse-to-pulse spacing, and temporal ripple effects.
Main Results:
- Picosecond pulse width and spacing are highly sensitive to optical cavity detuning and input laser frequency.
- Numerical simulations reveal antisymmetric temporal ripples between pulse pairs due to dispersion.
- The electro-optic modulator in an optical resonator enables tunable picosecond pulse generation.
Conclusions:
- Detuning and dispersion are critical parameters for controlling picosecond pulse properties in optical frequency combs.
- The studied device offers a method for generating and manipulating high-repetition-rate picosecond pulses.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for applications requiring precise pulse control.
Related Concept Videos
NMR Spectrometers: Radiofrequency Pulses and Pulse Sequences
A pulse is a short burst of radio waves distributed over a range of frequencies that simultaneously excites all the nuclei in the sample. Upon passing a radio frequency pulse along the x-axis, the nuclei absorb energy corresponding to their Larmor frequencies and achieve resonance. This shifts the net magnetization vector from the z-axis toward the transverse plane. This angle of rotation of the magnetization vector, or the flip angle, is proportional to the duration and intensity of the pulse.
Propagation Speed of Electromagnetic Waves
Electromagnetic waves are consistent with Ampere's law. Assuming there is no conduction current Ampere's law is given as:
Effective Value of a Periodic Waveform
The concept of effective value, the root mean square (RMS) value, is crucial in understanding electrical circuits and power delivery. This idea emerges from the necessity to measure the effectiveness of a voltage or current source in supplying power to a resistive load.
The effective value of a periodic current represents the direct current (DC) that conveys the same average power to a resistor as the periodic current itself. This concept is crucial when assessing AC circuits. To determine the...
The effective value of a periodic current represents the direct current (DC) that conveys the same average power to a resistor as the periodic current itself. This concept is crucial when assessing AC circuits. To determine the...

