Properties of continuous-wave 1123 nm laser with diode-side-pumped Nd:YAG

Laser properties of diode-side-pumped Nd:YAG laser operating at 1123 nm are demonstrated. A 1.0 at % Nd-doped Nd:YAG rod with a size of Ø3 × 63 mm² is used as the active medium. Both radial and tangential thermal focal lengths of this side-pumped Nd:YAG rod are determined under lasing condition. The results show that the bifocusing strength of 1123 nm laser is larger than that of 1164 nm laser, and 1123-nm thermal focal lengths are shorter than those of 1064-nm laser due to higher quantum defect. Laser output performances of 1123 nm in terms of stability, output power and beam quality influenced by pump power at different cavity lengths are also discussed with a convex-piano cavity.