Tunable-laser performance in BeAl(2)O(4):Cr(3+)

Broadly tunable laser operation has been obtained at room temperature from the vibronic bands of single-crystal BeAl(2)O(4):Cr(3+) under Xe-flashlamp excitation. Continuous tuning is obtained from 701 to 794 nm, with maximum power at 750 nm. Long-pulse operation employing 6.3-mm x 76-mm rods easily provides 500 mJ in 200-microsec bursts, whereas 70-mJ, 120-nsec pulses are obtained under Q-switch operation.