Optimization of pulse-width of passively Q-switched lasers by taking into account intracavity laser spatial distribution

The intracavity photon density and the initial population-inversion density in the diode-pumped passively Q-switched lasers are assumed to be Gaussian spatial distributions. The space-dependent rate equations are solved numerically. The key parameters of a passively Q-switched laser with the shortest pulse-width under Gaussian approximation are determined, and a group of general curves are generated for the first time. The curves clearly show the dependence of the optimal key parameters on the parameters of the gain medium, the saturable absorber, and the resonator. In addition, the importance including the space variation is also shown. The optimal calculations for a diode-pumped passively Nd:YVO₄ laser are presented to demonstrate the use of the curves and the related formulas.