Analysis of Optically Pumped CO(2)Laser

The operating characteristics of an optically pumped CO(2) laser are analyzed by a mathematical procedure that treats the transport of the pumping radiation according to the method of Milne. Simple expressions are obtained for laser power output and efficiency vs such operating parameters as initial pressure, species concentrations, output mirror transmittance, linewidth of the pumping radiation, and cavity dimensions. Optimum power output efficiencies appear to be comparable with those of electrical discharge and chemically pumped CO(2) lasers.