Single-frequency Q-switched operation of a diode-laser-pumped Nd:YAG ring laser using an acousto-optic modulator.

Single-frequency Q-switched operation of a diode-laser-pumped Nd:YAG ring laser has been achieved by using an acousto-optic modulator both to enforce unidirectional operation and to provide Q switching. Pulses with energies of 13 microJ and 36-ns duration have been obtained, corresponding to a peak power of 400 W, at a repetition rate of 1 kHz.