title: AM and high-harmonic FM laser mode locking.
abstract: We demonstrate a new technique of active mode locking that combines amplitude-modulated (AM) mode locking at the cavity fundamental repetition rate with frequency-modulated (FM) mode locking at a high harmonic. This method combines the advantages of pulse shortening by high-harmonic mode locking while preserving the higher peak powers available at the fundamental repetition rate. We demonstrate this technique using a Nd:YAG laser that is simultaneously AM mode locked at 80 MHz and FM mode locked at the 22nd harmonic (1.76 GHz). Pulses as short as 16 ps with a peak power of 6.25 kW were measured.
authors.forename: R P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Scott
authors.forename: C V
authors.initials: CV
authors.lastname: Bennett
authors.forename: B H
authors.initials: BH
authors.lastname: Kolner