Output power and polarization characteristics for a diode-side-pumped Nd:YAG rod laser with a diffusive optical pump cavity

We fabricated and analyzed the output power and polarization characteristics of an efficient diode-side-pumped Nd:YAG rod laser with a diffusive optical cavity. The resonator stability conditions are analyzed graphically in the symmetric and asymmetric configurations for a plane-parallel resonator. On the basis of an analysis of the stability condition and mode size for the r and theta polarizations, we clarify how the stable laser operation is possible for various resonator configurations. In particular, we show that the critical stability region of around g(1)*g(2)* = 0 provides a stable resonator in the symmetric resonator, even with a slight asymmetry. Experimentally, the output power and polarization characteristics are confirmed in association with the resonator stability condition. (C) 2002 Optical Society of America.