Laser energy storage circuit

What is a pulsed laser power supply?

Although pulsed power supplies are employed with several types of gas lasers, the most common pulsed laser power supply type is that used to power the flashlamp of pulsed solid-state lasers. Figure 1 is a simplified diagram of such a supply. A high-voltage dc power supply is used to charge an energy-storage capacitor.

Where is energy stored in a laser network?

Energy is stored in the capacitor of the network. When the laser is fired, an RLC circuit is formed in which the resistance is the resistance of the gas discharge. The inductor is chosen for the best energy transfer from the capacitor to the flashlamp or laser tube.

What type of power supply is used for laser ionization?

Thus, a high-voltage pulse is required to initiate ionization. Although pulsed power supplies are employed with several types of gas lasers, the most common pulsed laser power supply type is that used to power the flashlamp of pulsed solid-state lasers.

How does a semiconductor laser work?

Of the laser types normally operated by electrical pulses, only the semiconductor laser has a relatively constant electrical resistance. This type of laser is powered by an electrical pulse generator that provides short-duration, low-energy pulses. The specifications for such a power supply are included in Module 3-11, "Semiconductor Lasers."

How to design RLC circuit for a pulsed solid-state laser?

The following is a typical procedure for designing the RLC circuit for a pulsed solid-state laser: 1. Select lamp dimensions based on rod dimensions. 2. Determine desired pulse duration of system (arbitrary decision based on system application, or properties of active laser medium). 3.

What is energy storage & pulse-shaping section?

The energy-storage and pulse-shaping section is composed of inductors and capacitors. Capacitors store the energy, the lamp provides the load resistance for the RLC discharge circuit, and the inductors shape the output current pulse.