Abstract

We have investigated the near resonance tuning behavior and line shape of a high-power short-pulse, optically pumped, CH₃F far-infrared (FIR) laser using heterodyne techniques. The CH₃F laser operates on the Q(12) transition, λ = 496 μm. Our study of the CH₃F system is unique in combining two important capabilities, a tunable, narrow-width single-mode pump laser and a heterodyne receiver with a resolution of 10 MHz for single laser shots. Previous studies of CH₃F have either used widely tunable wideband pumps and low-precision frequency diagnostics¹ or high-precision frequency diagnostics (heterodyne receivers) and fixed frequency pumps.^2,3

© 1988 Optical Society of America