Simultaneous multiple-wavelength operation of a tunable dye laser

Abstract

A new technique for simultaneous operation of a dye laser at a number of independently tunable wavelengths is described. The system utilizes holographic wavelength selectors in succession, each aligned to choose one particular wavelength, and the output beam contains these wavelengths collinearly. Strong competition effects due to the homogeneous broadening of the amplifying medium reduce the multiple‐wavelength tuning range. By proper adjustment of the components in the device, this range can be increased to cover most of the single‐wavelength tuning region. The operational characteristics and the experimental results obtained at two‐wavelength operation are presented and discussed.