Pules Delays and Gain Characteristics in TEA CO2 Lasers

Abstract

<p> A novel method is reported for studying the time-dependent gain and cavity losses in a TEA CO2 laser. The technique involves an investigation of the time delay of the onset of lasing with respect to the current pulse in such a laser. Detailed measurements of this time delay as both the laser gain and the cavity loss are varied, in conjunction with a simple theoretical analysis, permit the evaluation of parameters describing the time-dependent gain and the cavity loss. A refinement of the technique, using two amplifier tubes, allows an accurate measurement of the decay time of the gain.</p>