Self-mode-locking of cw solid-state lasers by Kerr self-focusing

With the help of the self-consistent ABCD matrix method the fundamental normal mode of a four-mirror cavity with active rod and hard aperture is analyzed. Cavity parameters ranges with the small diffraction losses at hard aperture and the decreased diffraction losses for the increased mode intensities due to self-focusing in active medium are shown immediately for practical Kerr-lens mode-locked Ti:sapphire lasers. The fluctuation model of self-mode-locked lasers is used to demonstrate the generation of a stable ultra-short pulse train by the system under constant pumping for the obtained cavity parameters.