Generation of light pulses of 40-ps duration in a YAG:Nd laser with active mode locking

Minimum durations of light pulses generated in YAG:Nd lasers with active mode locking can be achieved by increasing the efficiency of operation of an acousto-optic switch. It is reported that a new material in the form of a CaMoO₄ single crystal can be used as the acoustic guide in the switch. Application of this switch in active mode locking in a YAG:Nd laser, instead of the commercially available ML-202 switch with a fused quartz acoustic guide, made it possible to generate pulses of 40-ps duration.