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Actively Q-switched all-fiber laser with an electrically controlled microstructured fiber.
Zhangwei Yu1, M Malmström, O Tarasenko
1Department of Applied Physics, Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), Roslagstullbacken 2, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
Optics Express
|July 1, 2010
Summary
This study demonstrates active Q-switching in an all-fiber laser system using a novel microstructured fiber polarization switch. This method achieves high peak power optical pulses with nanosecond precision.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Fiber Laser Technology
Background:
- All-fiber lasers offer advantages in stability and compactness.
- Active Q-switching is crucial for generating high-peak-power, short-duration laser pulses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate active Q-switching in an all-fiber laser system.
- To utilize a microstructured fiber polarization switch for laser modulation.
Main Methods:
- An all-fiber laser cavity was constructed with two 100% reflectors.
- A microstructured fiber polarization switch with electrically driven electrodes was employed for Q-switching.
- Optical feedback was controlled by a nanosecond current pulse to the switch.
Main Results:
- Active Q-switching of the all-fiber laser was successfully demonstrated.
- Pulses with 50 W peak power and 12 ns duration were achieved.
- The system operated at a 100 Hz repetition rate with 400 mW pump power.
Conclusions:
- The developed microstructured fiber polarization switch enables effective active Q-switching in all-fiber laser systems.
- This technique provides a pathway for generating high-power, nanosecond optical pulses.
- The system shows potential for applications requiring precise laser pulse control.
