We propose an alternative method to Q switching for generating giant pulses of laser light in three-level media. This mehod is based on the presence of an external coherent field driving one transition to allow the accumulation of a large population inversion in the other transition without laser oscillation even in a cavity with high- $Q$ factor. The switching off of the external coherent field causes the development of the giant pulse. Different time profiles for the switching off of the external field have been investigated.We propose an alternative method to Q switching for generating giant pulses of laser light in three-level media. This mehod is based on the presence of an external coherent field driving one transition to allow the accumulation of a large population inversion in the other transition without laser oscillation even in a cavity with high-$Q$ factor. The switching off of the external coherent field causes the development of the giant pulse. Different time profiles for the switching off of the external field have been investigated.

Physical Review AApr 1, 19996 citations

Lasing without inversion: Realities and Prospects

J. Mompart, R. Corbalán

We review amplification and lasing without inversion (AWI and LWI) in homogeneously broadened closed three-level systems in the framework of both density-matrix and quantum- jump formalisms. With the density-matrix formalism: (1) we study the nature of quantum interference in these systems; (2) determine analytically the conditions for AWI and locate the position of maxima and minima in the probe absorption spectrum; and (3) study various regimes of lasing, namely, continuous wave, self-pulsing and giant pulse lasing. Within the quantum-jump formalism we calculate the relative probabilities of the various physical processes responsible for probe field amplification and absorption.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.We review amplification and lasing without inversion (AWI and LWI) in homogeneously broadened closed three-level systems in the framework of both density-matrix and quantum- jump formalisms. With the density-matrix formalism: (1) we study the nature of quantum interference in these systems; (2) determine analytically the conditions for AWI and locate the position of maxima and minima in the probe absorption spectrum; and (3) study various regimes of lasing, namely, continuous wave, self-pulsing and giant pulse lasing. Within the quantum-jump formalism we calculate the relative probabilities of the various physical processes responsible for probe field amplification and absorption.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.

Proceedings of SPIE, the International Society for Optical Engineering/Proceedings of SPIEJan 1, 19990 citations

Pulsed resonant laser interaction in three level systems

S. Chandra, William M. Yen

Physics Letters AJun 1, 19765 citations

Q

factor. The switching off of the external coherent field causes the development of the giant pulse. Different time profiles for the switching off of the external field have been investigated.