Method for actively controlling the optical output of a seed laser

Abstract

Seed pulse generators for fiber amplifier systems include a seed pump controller coupled to a seed pump laser diode. A photodetector is situated to detect seed pulse generation, and is coupled to the seed pump controller so that seed pumping is decreased upon pulse detection. For a laser diode pump source, a pump current can be pulsed to produce a seed pulse and then decreased to a bias level such as a DC bias current that is less than a pump laser threshold current. Single seed pulses can be generated with reduced pulse jitter.

Description

technical field [0001] The present disclosure relates to laser pulse control for a seed laser. Background technique [0002] In many laser applications, stable laser pulses are required. In some cases, control of the timing between pulses is very important, while in other cases, variations in pulse energy or pulse duration may not be acceptable. Additionally, some laser systems can be configured to deliver repeatable laser pulses at a pulse repetition rate within a narrow range, so that applications requiring variable pulse repetition rates often require multiple sources. In some processing applications, an unstable pulse output manifests itself as missing pulses or double pulses, both of which are undesirable. Methods and apparatus for providing stable laser pulses over a wide range of repetition rates are described below. Contents of the invention [0003] As disclosed herein, a seed pulse source reliably provides individual pulses to an optical amplifier for amplific...

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Problems solved by technology

In some processing applications, an unstable pulse output manifests as missing pulses or double pulses, both of which are undesirable

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