Rapid Tuning Mechanism For CO2 Lasers

A collinear acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) is used to achieve all-electronic, rapid wavelength tuning (agility) of a pulsed CO2 laser. Electronic intra-cavity laser wavelength selection is demonstrated on both the P and R branches of the (0001) - (1000) CO2 band. An intra-cavity AOTF greatly expands the flexibility of a CO2 laser affording 10-50 kHz wavelength switching rates, allowing broad-band (9-11 μm) coverage and random wavelength access, and is basically rugged. This paper covers a description of wavelength tuning by the AOTF mechanism, design and fabrication steps of the collinear AOTF, problems encountered, and test results.