Efficient, low-threshold synchronously-pumped parametric oscillation in periodically-poled lithium niobate over the 1.3 μm to 5.3 μm range

Using periodically-poled lithium niobate (PPLN), synchronously pumped by a Nd:YLF laser at 1047 nm, optical parametric oscillation is achieved with a mean threshold power as low as 7.5 mW, nearly an order of magnitude lower than previously reported. Output slope efficiencies (signal plus idler), at a signal wavelength of similar to 1.7 mu m (idler 2.7 mu m), of up to 160% are observed. Efficient operation has been observed out to 5.3 mu m, well into the infrared absorption edge of lithium niobate. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.