Abstract: The optical modulator of the invention comprises an electro-optic material (EOD) which modulates optical energy in accordance with an applied voltage. The applied voltage is controlled by a light activated switch, or switches, which vary the magnitude of the voltage applied by switching a charge transfer circuit (or other dc source) of which the EOD forms a capacitive element. The charge transfer circuit preferably includes a plurality of capacitive elements, each charged to a separate voltage, so that when switched by said light activated switches, the voltage applied to the EOD is controlled. When used in a laser cavity, the optical modulator can control the output of the laser in response to optical input signals. The optical modulator may be used for Q-switching the laser cavity, mode-locking the laser, cavity dumping the laser or modulating the output of the laser, or a combination of the above.

Abstract: Device for and method of modulating an electric current pulse in which an inductor is shunted by a closing switch element in order to define a loop. The loop is then opened, which magnetically transfers energy stored in the inductor to the other inductor elements. Included in the loop is a constant voltage opening switch element which limits the potential difference across an opening switch in the loop. Proper selection of the number of such loops included in the device, the inductance of the inductor elements, and the voltage for the constant voltage opening switch elements permits tailoring of the resultant current pulse to any load in any predetermined shape, including a square pulse in which current is maintained constant for the duration of the pulse.