Nanosecond sum-frequency generating optical parametric oscillator using simultaneous phase matching

We report a nanosecond sum-frequency generating optical parametric oscillator based on a single KTiOAsO4 crystal that is simultaneously phase matched for optical parametric generation and sum-frequency generation. Pumped at a wavelength of 1064 nm by a Q-switched Nd: YAG laser, this device produces 10.4-ns-long 8.3 mJ red pulses at a wavelength of 627 nm with 21% energy conversion efficiency. This device provides a simple and efficient method for converting high energy Nd: YAG lasers to a red wavelength. (C) 2005 Optical Society of America