Simple powerful tunable single-mode and mode-locked TEA CO2 laser

Abstract
A simple method for constructing a single longitudinal‐mode CO2 laser that is tunable within individual rotational transitions is presented. Useful power levels, typically 0.3 J per pulse in a single‐mode beam, are obtained from a single‐stage device. Mode‐locked output can also be obtained from the laser. In addition, design and construction of a local oscillator for making absolute in situ frequency measurements is described.