title: Vector formalism for circularly symmetric laser beams.
abstract: We present a finite dimensional vector formalism that describes the propagation of circularly symmetric beams in a simple and effective way. A propagation matrix operator is explicitly given that determines the amplitude as a function of the radius at any plane. Power transported to a circular or annular target is discussed in some detail. In particular, the problem of choosing a beam shape at the aperture that maximizes the power transported to a target has a simple solution in the new formalism.
authors: F
authors: F
authors: Bloisi
authors: L
authors: L
authors: Vicari