Continuous-wave operation of Nd : YVO4 at 1.06 and 1.34 μ

Abstract

Continuous-wave plane-polarized outputs of 1 W at 1.06 μ and 0.35 W at 1.34 μ were obtained by end pumping small samples of Nd : YVO4 with an argon-ion laser. Slope efficiencies and material losses were determined. At 1.06 and 1.34 μ, Nd : YVO4 lasers can substantially outperform Nd : YAG lasers. Self-Q-switched operation of Nd : YVO4 at both wavelengths was obtained by resonator misalignment.