Abstract: There is provided an intracavity module (150) arranged to be replaceably-mounted inside a laser resonator cavity. The intracavity module comprises a first optical element (104), a second optical element (102) and a frequency conversion element (107). The frequency conversions element is arranged to receive light at a first frequency and output light at a second frequency. The first optical element is at least partially transmissive at the first frequency. The frequency conversion element is encapsulated by at least the first optical element and the second optical element.

Abstract: This invention relates to a new diode pumped solid state laser which has a miniature Q-switching device in the cavity. Nd:YAG, Nd:YLF or Nd:YVO4 are useful solid state laser materials for Q-switching. A compact thermo-electric (TE)cooled diode laser unit is used as a pump source, and high-speed switching of the drive current driver is provided for the precise pump energy control. By using the variable high-speed switching pump source, the energy of each Q-switched output pulse from the laser can be controlled precisely and the usual “giant pulse” from the Q-switch can be eliminated. Also, the pulse energy can be controlled precisely independent of the repetition rate or switching speed of the Q-switch without using other feedback components. The Q-switch is synchronized to open at the end of each diode pump pulse.

Abstract: A diode laser pumps a laser crystal in a known manner. A series of bypass mirrors selectively bypass the diode output beam around the laser crystal and directly out the same exit port as the pumped laser output beam. A hand held enclosure houses this dual laser head and supporting optics in a portable laser housing. Support electronics are optionally enclosed along with the applicator assembly and a battery. A transceiver to a host computer is included along with an optional exhaust and filter system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus including a system for cylindrical or polar coordinate movement of a material or laser beam whereby the material is engraved with an image upon a rotary table. The rotary table is connected to a translation stage. The movement of the translation stage is coordinated with the rotation of the rotary table and the firing of the laser to effectively allow engraving of a material in a series of concentric circles. The system allows high-speed and high-resolution laser engraving. The system is also simpler and cheaper than conventional X-Y methods and apparatus. The method and apparatus are useful for photographic quality laser engraving.