Single-mode cw Cr(3+):LiSrAlF(6) laser using an external fiber grating

A Cr(3+):LiSAF laser oscillator self-injection locked by an externally coupled fiber grating was constructed. Single-mode operation in a Cr(3+):LiSAF laser was obtained by use of a 67%-ref lectivity fiber grating that was fabricated with a holographic technique in which a narrow-band KrF UV laser exposure was used. This configuration permits the use of a fiber grating with optimum ref lectivity for efficient single-mode operation.