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

Abstract

The efficient operation of a TEA CO(2) laser wherein the parallel spark channel preioniser of the laser itself functioned as a switch is reported. Simultaneous closure of the parallel gaps without an external switch has been achieved by ballasting them with mutually coupled inductances. The repetitive operation capability of such a laser is also discussed.

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.…”

Enhanced efficiency of a mutually coupled parallel spark preioniser

“…Operation of a mini-TEA CO 2 laser switched by its own parallel preioniser array has been reported recently [1]. Simultaneous closure of the parallel gaps of the preioniser array here without a switch was made possible by ballasting each of the spark channels with inductance and then mutually coupling them to the others through magnetic cores [2].…”

“…The increased preionisation peak current due to the near ballast free operation of the mutually coupled parallel spark channels is shown to be responsible for the observed behavior.Ó 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.Operation of a mini-TEA CO 2 laser switched by its own parallel preioniser array has been reported recently [1]. Simultaneous closure of the parallel gaps of the preioniser array here without a switch was made possible by ballasting each of the spark channels with inductance and then mutually coupling them to the others through magnetic cores [2].…”

Towards a triggerable switchless TEA CO2 laser

“…Several attempts have been made in the past to dispense with the switch, albeit with limited success, in the operation of such lasers [1-3]. We have been successful in achieving efficient operation of a switch-less TEA CO 2 laser wherein the preioniser spark array, an integral part of the laser, functioned as a switch as well [4][5][6]. The operation with parallel spark array type preioniser [5] is of particular interest as here the current is shared among the parallel channels enhancing, thereby, their life in the repetitive mode.…”

“…We have been successful in achieving efficient operation of a switch-less TEA CO 2 laser wherein the preioniser spark array, an integral part of the laser, functioned as a switch as well [4][5][6]. The operation with parallel spark array type preioniser [5] is of particular interest as here the current is shared among the parallel channels enhancing, thereby, their life in the repetitive mode. Synchronization of the operation of a laser with an event may assume significance under certain conditions, e.g., operation of an oscillator and an amplifier.…”