On the operation of switch-less transversely excited atmosphere CO2 lasers in the oscillator and amplifier configurations

Abstract

The work presented in this paper deals with the triggering aspect of a switchless laser. Many methods were utilized to affect the operation of two switch-less lasers in the oscillator-amplifier configuration. Most satisfactory performance in terms of the range and reliability of the delay was obtained with the LC inversion-based triggering option.

Repetitive operation of switchless transverse flow transversely excited atmosphere CO2 lasers

“…[15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22] In this method, the preionising spark array, an integral part of the laser head, was made to serve the dual role; that of a switch as well as of a source of UV photons essential for the preconditioning of the inter-electrode volume. The sequential preionising spark array used in the initial stage of this study was constructed by segmenting the main spark gap into smaller adjustable gaps and then placing them in series along the length and to one side of the discharge.…”

“…[17][18][19] that, in turn, allowed perfecting this switchless operation technique by way of extending the operation to include wider discharge width 19 and conventional sized systems 20 that could also be operated in triggered mode. 21,22 Repetitive operation, which was the prime motivation for moving towards switchless configuration, has so far eluded us primarily due to the following reason. As the operating voltage of a switchless laser is governed by the preioniser gap length, 17 in order to have an independent control on the operating voltage of the laser and the composition of the laser gas mixture, the preionisation chamber is isolated from the main discharge by means of LiF windows 16,19,20 that offer high transmission to the UV photons in the 110-130 nm range known to cause effective photo preconditioning.…”