Small autonomous passively Q-switched Nd{sup 3+}:YAG laser with a Cr{sup 4+}:YAG Q switch emitting pulse trains

The energy and time characteristics of a passively Q-switched Nd{sup 3+}:YAG laser with a Cr{sup 4+}:YAG Q switch emitting pulse trains are studied and analysed theoretically. The description and technical parameters of a small autonomous laser with intracavity second-harmonic generation (ICSHG) in the pulse-train regime are presented. The laser provides a high total pulse-train energy for a relatively low peak power of a single pulse, stable operation in a wide temperature range, and has a small weight and size, which is convenient in operation. The enhanced reliability and stability of the laser operation are provided by its original technical design: the ICSHG scheme for type II phase matching without polarisers, the use of temperature-noncritical phase matching in KTP crystals, dust- and moisture-proof casing, and battery-operated pulsed power supply for the pump flashlamp. (lasers)