Optical and laser properties of (F(2)(+))(H) centers in sulfur-doped NaCl.

We report the production and main optical and laser properties of (F2+)H color centers in sulfur-doped NaCl crystals. Using a 1.06-μm Nd:YAG laser as the pump source, we realize continuous-wave and synchronously mode-locked laser operation. The laser is tunable over a remarkably large wavelength range of 1.43–2.0 μm. Output power levels are as much as ~800 mW near 1.6 μm; mode-locked pulse durations are typically 4–7 ps.