Parameters affecting the performance of a rf excited CO2 waveguide laser

Abstract

This paper summarizes the results of a series of rf gas discharge experiments which were performed to assess the factors which influence the efficient operation of a transversely excited CO₂ waveguide laser. Using multiple resonating inductors for impedance matching, the longitudinal voltage variations are shown to be affected by the rf operation frequency and the discharge geometry. The effect of the gas mixture and the rf input power density upon the discharge field to pressure ratio is also investigated.