Automatic continuous scanning and random-access switching of mid-infrared waves generated by difference-frequency mixing

摘要

We report the rapid tuning of mid-infrared waves beyond 5 mu m emitted in difference-frequency mixing with an electronically tuned dual-wavelength Ti:Al2O3 laser used as a pumping source. Simultaneous rapid tuning of the dual wavelengths, which satisfy phase matching in AgGaS2, allows rapid random access switching and continuous tuning of mid-infrared wavelengths. In random-access switching, the mid-infrared wavelength is tuned every pulse shot at a repetition rate of 1 kHz. Mid-infrared wavelengths continuously tuned from 5.2 to 7.2 mu m, from 7.0 to 9.1 mu m, and from 8.9 to 12.0 mu m are achieved at phase-matched angles of 55 degrees, 50 degrees, and 45 degrees, respectively. (c) 2006 Optical Society of America.