Beam characterization and measurement of propagation attributes

Beam waist size, waist location and the times-diffraction-limit number, M2, are the most basic and fundamental parameters describing the propagation characteristics of laser beams. This information is useful in the engineering development of lasers and beam delivery systems, and provides a meaningful way to monitor, compare and control quality both in the manufacture and in the application of laser devices. An instrument that allows real-time access to this information is described.