Abstract

Advanced laser designs employing multipass amplifier laser architectures require large aperture optical switches. As a critical component of the optical switch we have designed and operated large aperture (15×15, 27×27, and 32×32 cm) plasma electrode Pockels cells (PEPCs) and characterized their optical performance. Experiments performed include static depolarization losses, pulsed switching efficiency, cw switching dynamics, switching uniformity, and laser damage threshold.

© 1992 Optical Society of America