Single-Frequency Laser Using a 100-μm Thick Nd:YVO4 Crystal in a 50-mm Long Cavity

A new type of single-frequency solid state laser for achieving a highly stable second-harmonic generation in a simple configuration was developed using a quite thin laser medium. A 100-μm thick Nd:YVO4 crystal with one side coated for high reflection in a 50-mm long cavity which serves as automatic gain discriminator was end-pumped by a laser diode. Single-frequency output powers of 100 mW and 17 mW were obtained for fundamental and second-harmonic waves respectively by 1-W excitation. No chaotic fluctuation was observed with the frequency-doubled output.