A simple and versatile electronic control system for a picosecond Nd:YLF oscillator - Nd:glass amplifier laser chain

An electronic control system, developed for power conditioning of a picosecond Nd:YLF - Nd:glass laser oscillator - amplifier chain is described. The system generates charging and firing signals required for a commercial picosecond oscillator operated in a repetitive mode, and also carries out a charging and firing sequence of external amplifiers for single-shot operation. The system also controls a mechanical shutter to selectively pass a laser pulse from the oscillator for subsequent amplification. The laser chain includes a Faraday isolator incorporated with a safety check. A control signal is generated by this unit when conditions suitable for a sufficient level of isolation are achieved, and the same is used for gating the oscillator pulse. Good synchronization is confirmed from the measurements of amplifier gain as a function of the relative time delay in firing of different stages. The electronics developed is simple and modular, with sufficient scope for expansion of the system, and resistant to electromagnetic interference.