title: Turn-key compact high temperature terahertz quantum cascade lasers: imaging and room temperature detection.
abstract: Terahertz quantum cascade lasers have been investigated as a turn-key terahertz source for widespread applications. Two lasers were mounted in a small liquid nitrogen-cooled dewar and combined with a sophisticated pulse driver. We present a detailed analysis in respect to current-voltage characteristics, emission wavelengths, polarization, pulse lengths and repetition rates. We have measured the laser power with a germanium photoconductor and compared the results to a Golay detector evaluating potential artifacts. We have studied mode profiles in the far-field which mirror the internal mode structure. Potential applications have been illustrated by imaging optical elements and a simple test object. Video rate room temperature imaging has been demonstrated in concept.
authors.forename: Erik
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Bründermann
authors.forename: Martina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Havenith
authors.forename: Giacomo
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Scalari
authors.forename: Marcella
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Giovannini
authors.forename: Jérôme
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Faist
authors.forename: Johannes
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kunsch
authors.forename: Lars
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Mechold
authors.forename: Mario
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Abraham