Abstract: A digital pulse shaping module for controlling a pulsed laser oscillator according to a digital input waveform is provided. The pulse shaping module includes a clock generator generating a plurality of phase-related clock signals and a shape generator which outputs a digital shape signal corresponding to the digital input waveform in Double Data Rate in response to the clock signals. A DAC converts the digital shape into an analog shape signal. The analog shape signal may be used to control the current source of a laser seed source or modulators in the laser oscillator shaping a seed light signal. Optionally, the pulse shaping module may also output a gate control signal having a predetermined timing relationship with respect to the digital shape signal.

Abstract: A driver circuit for a laser diode provides drive signals to the electrodes of the laser diode based on a pulsed input signal. An input receives the pulsed input signal and launches it into an amplification stage which preferably includes dual amplifiers, a buffering stage and a biasing stage. The output of the laser diode is an optical signal that reproduces the pulsed input signal with high fidelity and low amplitude noise. In one embodiment, the input separates the pulsed input signal into two signal components, launched in respective inverting and non-inverting branches which each include successive amplification, buffering and biasing stages.

Abstract: A digital pulse shaping module for controlling a pulsed laser oscillator according to a digital input waveform is provided. The pulse shaping module includes a clock generator generating a plurality of phase-related clock signals and a shape generator which outputs a digital shape signal corresponding to the digital input waveform in Double Data Rate in response to the clock signals. A DAC converts the digital shape into an analog shape signal. The analog shape signal may be used to control the current source of a laser seed source or modulators in the laser oscillator shaping a seed light signal. Optionally, the pulse shaping module may also output a gate control signal having a predetermined timing relationship with respect to the digital shape signal.

Abstract: An exercise device and methods for strengthening the muscles of lower back and abdomen. The device may be configured to impart extension to the spine of a user. The device may include a reclinable chair having a backrest pivotally attached to a seat. The backrest may be pivotally declined backwards in relation to the seat by a user during exercise. The device may include a decline control mechanism that is selectively operable to resist the decline of the backrest, to limit the maximum angle of decline of the backrest relative to the seat, or both.