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Population Inversion - Definition and References

Population inversion is a condition of the laser medium where a system consisting of a group of molecules or atoms exists in a higher excited state with more quantum systems than that of the lower energy state of a laser transition.

29 May 2014

Plano-Convex Lens - Equation and Explanation

A plano-convex lens is a convergent lens with one flat surface and one convex surface. It focuses parallel light rays to a positive focal point to form real images that can be manipulated using spatial filters.

29 May 2014

Wavefront - Introduction and References

A wavefront may be described as a surface over which an optical wave presents a constant phase. In other words, a wave front may be the surface over which a wave represents a crest (maximum point) or a trough (minimum point).

29 May 2014

Radiant Flux - Explanation and References

Radiant flux is the energy per unit time that is radiated from an optical source, expressed in terms of Watts.

29 May 2014

Laser Mode Locking - Theory and Applications

Mode locking is a technique used to obtain ultra short pulses from lasers. Lasers that are mode locked are capable of producing pulses having pulse widths in the order of sub-pico seconds or even femto seconds.

29 May 2014

Intelligent Lighting Systems - An Introduction

The need for more energy-efficient and cost-efficient lighting systems is increasing everyday. The use of movement detection, daylight equalization and control technology for scheduling power management via dimming and control of lights can effectively improve efficiency of the lighting systems.

22 May 2014

Bragg Mirrors - Definition and Applications

A Bragg mirror, also known as a dielectric mirror, is a kind of mirror made up of alternating thin optical layers of two different materials. A quarter-wave mirror is the most commonly used Bragg mirror consisting of optical layers whose thickness is exactly one-quarter of the design wavelength.

15 May 2014

Brewster Window - Definition and Applications

A Brewster window is an uncoated substrate that is positioned at Brewster’s angle within a laser, instead of external mirrors. This substrate acts as a polarizer such that the p-polarized light enters and exits the window without reflection losses, while the s-polarized light is reflected.

15 May 2014

Chirped Mirrors - Definition and Applications

A chirped mirror is a dielectric mirror that has chirped surfaces on it. Chirped spaces are spaces of varying depths for reflecting light of varying wavelengths. These spaces are positioned between the dielectric layers or stacks.

15 May 2014

Chromatic Dispersion - Definition and Applications

Chromatic dispersion is the change in refractive index due to change in wavelength. Dispersion is the phenomenon that causes light to be separated into various colors while passing through a prism. Dispersion is sometimes referred to as chromatic dispersion in order to describe the wavelength dependency.

15 May 2014