High-power 24 channel radial array slab RF excited carbon dioxide laser

A unique way of driving a multi-channel RF excited slab laser is presented. Resonant cavity techniques were employed to provide high power splitting and impedance transformation for the excitation of multiple discharge elements. Uniform and isolated power division was observed in 24 channels, stacked in a radial array referred to as the Zodiac geometry. Impedance matching networks were not necessary as the RF cavity splitter created a near ideal voltage source capable of driving any discharge impedance. With 24 channels driven, optical powers over 3 kW have been observed.