| abstract |
Abstract: A harmonic generator laser system featuring a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) or a distributed feedback tunable diode laser (11) is a quasi-phase matched optically nonlinear material (13). (QPM) coupled to the waveguide (31; 16). Tuning of the DBR laser is accomplished thermally (14; 51 (53)), or by current injection (ITUNE), or both, thereby halving the wavelength of the red laser and obtaining a visible blue spectral band. Thermal tuning provides a coarse tuning adjustment, while injection current provides a fine tuning accessible to the user. Separately or in concert with current tuning, a modulated signal (IMOD) is applied to the DBR laser to achieve intensity modulated or pulsed output. In another embodiment, the modulation is achieved by frequency modulation of the laser (VFSK). A very compact tunable blue laser is formed. In yet another embodiment, a double clad fiber amplifier (101) is located between the tunable laser (11) and the waveguide (16). The fiber amplifier is pumped by an intense laser (103), while its core directs frequency doubling light from a continuously tunable laser (11) in nonlinear material. |