Definition and Fundamentals

Diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers are a class of laser devices that employ semiconductor diodes as the pumping source to energize a solid-state gain medium. Unlike their gas or dye laser counterparts, DPSS lasers utilize a crystalline solid to produce laser light, offering a combination of the diode's electrical efficiency and the high-quality beam of solid-state lasers.

Operational Principles

The working principle of a DPSS laser begins with the pumping wavelength, typically at 808nm, which is absorbed by the gain medium. This medium, often a neodymium-doped crystal such as Nd: YAG, is excited by the absorbed energy, leading to a population inversion. The excited electrons in the crystal then drop to a lower energy state, emitting photons at the laser's output wavelength of 1064nm. This process is facilitated by a resonant optical cavity that amplifies the light into a coherent beam.

Structural Composition

The architecture of a DPSS laser is characterized by its compactness and integration. The pump diodes are strategically placed to direct their emission into the gain medium, which is precisely cut and polished to specific dimensions, such as 'φ367mm', 'φ378mm', 'φ5165mm', 'φ7165mm', or 'φ2*73mm'. These dimensions are critical as they influence the mode volume and, consequently, the efficiency and power scaling of the laser.

Product Features and Parameters

DPSS lasers are renowned for their high output power, ranging from 55 to 650 watts, which is a testament to their efficiency and the quality of the gain medium. The pump-rated power, lying between 270 to 300 watts, is a crucial parameter that determines the threshold and efficiency of the laser system. The high output power combined with the precision of the pumping process allows for a beam of exceptional quality and stability.

Critical Parameters

Pumping Wavelength: 808nm, optimized for efficient absorption by the gain medium.
Pump Rated Power: 270-300W, indicating the power at which the pump diodes operate.
Output Wavelength: 1064nm, the standard for many applications due to its high beam quality and penetration capability.
Output Power: 55-650W, showcasing the laser's versatility in power output for various applications.
Crystal Dimensions: Varying sizes to accommodate different operational modes and output powers.