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Updated: May 27, 2026
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Quantum State Engineering of Light with Continuous-wave Optical Parametric Oscillators
Published on: May 30, 2014
Incoherently pumped continuous wave optical parametric oscillator broadened by non-collinear phasematching
Jelle Storteboom1, Chris J Lee, Ab F Nieuwenhuis
1Laser Physics and Nonlinear Optics Group, MESA+ Research Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente, PO Box 217, 7500AE Enschede, The Netherlands.
Optics Express
|November 24, 2011
Summary
This study demonstrates a singly resonant optical parametric oscillator (OPO) using an amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) source. Non-collinear phase-matching achieved a broad 230 nm spectral bandwidth, with potential for further enhancement.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Nonlinear Optics
- Laser Physics
Background:
- Optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) are crucial for generating tunable laser light.
- Broad spectral bandwidth generation in OPOs is essential for applications like spectroscopy and frequency comb generation.
- Amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) sources offer a unique pump alternative for OPOs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the performance of a singly resonant OPO pumped by an ASE source.
- To explore the impact of pump focusing on spectral bandwidth.
- To assess the potential for achieving broader spectral bandwidths using non-collinear phase-matching.
Main Methods:
- A singly resonant optical parametric oscillator (OPO) was constructed.
- The OPO was pumped using an amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) source.
- Non-collinear phase-matching was implemented through specific pump focusing conditions.
Main Results:
- A spectral bandwidth of 230 nm (190 cm(-1)) was achieved.
- The non-collinear phase-matching configuration was identified as the key factor for the broad bandwidth.
- The experimental results align with theoretical predictions regarding phase-matching schemes.
Conclusions:
- Singly resonant OPOs pumped by ASE sources can achieve significant spectral bandwidths.
- Non-collinear phase-matching is an effective technique for broadening OPO spectral output.
- Further optimization of phase-matching conditions holds promise for even wider spectral generation.
