Switch-less operation of a TEA CO2 laser

Abstract

We report here the operation of a UV pre-ionised mini-TEA CO2 laser where the use of an external switch has been dispensed with. This was rendered possible by making the preioniser spark array play a dual role- that of a switch as well as of a source of UV photons that pre-conditioned the inter-electrode volume.

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.…”

“…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. 15 One obvious disadvantage here is that the entire discharge current flows through each of the spark channels. This not only limits the life of the array but also hinders the recovery of the gaps in the repetitive operation.…”

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

“…In the past, we have successfully operated self-switched transversely excited atmosphere (TEA) CO 2 lasers of varying discharge volumes utilizing different electrode geometries [1][2][3]. Here, the pre-ionizer, an integral part of the laser head, in addition to preconditioning the inter-electrode volume, performed the role of a switch as well.…”

Switching of a TEA CO2laser with its own UV emitting parallel spark channels

“…The operation of the laser based on these schemes cannot therefore be regarded as switch-less in a true sense as the operational life of the laser in the repetitive mode will once again be limited by the life of the switch required for the generation of the preionising pulse. We have, of late, succeeded in achieving operation of a uv preionised TEA CO 2 laser by dispensing with the service of any such extraneous switch [7]. 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 pre-conditioning of the interelectrode volume.…”