Abstract

We report results of efforts to develop a highly sensitive quantitative small-signal gain (SSG) measurement technique for use in evaluation of potential chemically pumped visible laser systems. Intracavity gain loss techniques using cw dye lasers as a gain probe are known to have high sensitivity.^1-3 The method typically involved placing the gain medium into the cavity of a cw dye laser. The gain existing in the dye is then utilized to offset all losses in the cavity. Thus any gain existing in the test medium enhances the dye laser output since all losses are automatically overcome by the dye. Net gains as small as 10⁻⁴ or 0.01% are detectable using this technique.

© 1985 Optical Society of America