The comparative simulation of the Q-switched Nd:YAG and Yb:YAG microchip lasers

In this paper a comparison between microchip lasers based on Nd:YAG and Yb:YAG-generating media by means of the optimization problem solving is done. Such an approach allows to estimate theoretically the highest possible values of the laser irradiation parameters, particularly, the energy E in the laser pulse. This investigation is stipulated by such properties of the Yb/sup 3+/doped medium, as smaller, ir comparison with traditional Nd:YAG, Stox losses (24% for Nd:YAG and 9% for Yb:YAG laser), a low thermal load, a wider absorption band in the pumping region, a higher lifetime of the upper laser level, an absence of the concentration extinguishing and, consequently, the possibility of the ytterbium concentration increase.