Numeric Model of a CO2 Laser Amplifier
Abstract
A carbon dioxide laser amplifier simulation model is developed for use on IBM-compatible personal computers. First, a general laser amplifier is modeled by dividing an amplifier into separate cells to model both the temporal and spatial dependence of the amplifier's gain. The resulting amplification is validated by comparison with a closed-form solution. Second, losses due to amplified spontaneous emissions (ASE) are investigated and included in the model. Equations for ASE losses consider both the solid angle of the emissions and the reflectivity of the cavity windows. Other reflections are ignored. Third, an existing numerical model of CO2 gas kinetics is incorporated. In this kinetics model, temperature-dependent terms are fixed according to initial conditions, and the rotational levels of the upper CO2 vibrational state are assumed to be in equilibrium. The user-friendly model allows designers and students to investigate the amplification of either square input pulses or pulses generated with a laser oscillator while varying several input parameters. Among the variable parameters are length, diameter, gas mix, temperature, pressure, window reflectivity, and pump efficiency. Theses. (aw)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA215818
Entities
People
- Frank P. Gallagher
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology