Army Research Laboratory
For a high power solid state laser in the 1.6 micron spectral region, Er3+ is a natural choice for the active ion. One advantage is the possibility of low-quantum-defect pumping with diode lasers. A disadvantages is the presence of upconversion. I will discuss recent modeling and experiments on lasing, and z-scan measurements of upconversion. 'Level parameters' will be proposed for quantitative comparison of rare-earth-doped solid-state laser media, operating temperatures, pump and laser wavelengths.
Location: Physics Bldg., Room 401