Iterative Fourier transform algorithm for phase-only pulse shaping

We demonstrate the adaptation of an iterative Fourier transform algorithm for the calculation of theoretical spectral phase functions required for pulse shaping applications. The algorithm is used to determine the phase functions necessary for the generation of different temporal intensity pro les. The performance of the algorithm is compared to two exemplary standard approaches. i.e. a Genetic Algorithm and a combination of a Simplex Downhill and a Simulated Annealing algorithm. It is shown that the iterative Fourier transform algorithm converges much faster than both alternative methods. (C) 2001 Optical Society of America.