Experiments and theory of laser noise

Abstract

Solid state laser sources, such as diode-laser pumped Nd:YAG lasers, have given us a cw laser light of high power with unprecedented stability and low noise performance. In these lasers most of the technical sources of noise can be eliminated and thereby allow operation close to the theoretical limit set by the quantum properties of the light. We present progress in the experimental realization of such lasers. These investigations include the control of noise by electronic feedback, passive external cavities; and the reliable generation of amplitude squeezed light through second harmonic generation. At the same time we have developed theoretical models describing the quantum noise properties of coupled systems of lasers and cavities. The agreement between our experimental results with noise spectra calculated with our realistic theoretical models demonstrates the ability to predict the performance of various laser systems. Show more