title: Efficient diode-array-pumped Nd:YAG and Nd:Lu:YAG lasers.
abstract: Nd:YAG (YAG) and Nd:Lu:YAG (LYAG) are investigated as high-efficiency laser materials utilizing a diode-array side-pump geometry. We demonstrate higher laser efficiencies than previously reported for transversely pumped YAG. A YAG rod yielded an optical slope efficiency of 47.7%, while a LYAG rod yielded an optical slope efficiency of 50.3%. Increased performance of these materials is attributed to higher pump absorption and lower losses.
authors.forename: T H
authors.initials: TH
authors.lastname: Allik
authors.forename: W W
authors.initials: WW
authors.lastname: Hovis
authors.forename: D P
authors.initials: DP
authors.lastname: Caffey
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: King