Coherent transients observed by Stark switching in ruby having narrow optical hole burning

By using the Stark switching technique we observed new coherent transient signals in ruby at low laser intensities, which are unique in solids where T₁ ? T₂. It was confirmed that the existence of narrow optical hole burning before the switching plays an essential role in giving rise to the signals. The effects of the multiple optical hole burning were also observed in the time domain. Assuming the existence of the holes, the signals can well be interpreted by linear system analysis.