Note: An in situ method for measuring the non-linear response of a Fabry-Perot cavity

The transfer cavity is a very important frequency reference for laser stabilization and is widely used for applications such as precision measurements and laser cooling of ions or molecules. But the non-linear response of the piezoelectric ceramic transducer (PZT) in the Fabry-Perot cavity limits the performance of the laser stabilization. Thus, measuring and controlling such non-linearity is essential. Here we report an in situ, optical method to characterize this non-linearity by measuring the resonant signals of a dual-frequency laser. The differential measurement makes it insensitive to the laser and cavity drifts, while maintaining a very high sensitivity. It can be applied for various applications with PZTs, especially in an optical lab.