Abstract: Systems, methods, circuits and/or devices for generating high repetition rate ultra-short pulses are described. As one of many examples, an optical pulse generating laser system is described that produces mode-locked optical pulses. The laser system incorporates an optical pulse generation device that includes two optical loops coupled via a beam splitter. In addition, the optical pulse generation device includes an optical gain medium that is associated with the first optical loop, and a saturable element that is disposed in either the first optical loop or the second optical loop. The saturable element is operable to modulate a group of optical pulses propagating in at least one of the first optical loop and the second optical loop to create a group of substantially regular modulated pulses.

Abstract: A composite assembly comprises a first component, a second component, and a coating formed on at least one of the first and second components. The coating comprises a layer of material for allowing the first and second components to be optically contacted, while the coating is optically inert when disposed between the first and second components.

Abstract: A method of assembling precision optical or optomechanical components of otherwise incompatible chemistry that provides first and second components having respective first and second polished contacting surfaces to be bonded; deposits a thin film dielectric coating at the surface of the first and or second polished surface, and contacts the coated portion of the first or second components with the respective contacting surfaces to be bonded, while maintaining alignment of the two components, to form a single structure.

Abstract: A method of assembling precision optical or optomechanical components of otherwise incompatible chemistry that provides first and second components having respective first and second polished contacting surfaces to be bonded; deposits a thin film dielectric coating at the surface of the first and or second polished surface, and contacts the coated portion of the first or second components with the respective contacting surfaces to be bonded, while maintaining alignment of the two components, to form a single structure.