Efficiency of laser-diode-array side pumping of a passively Q-switched erbium laser

A method of modelling the conditions for side pumping a passively Q-switched erbium laser with linear laser-diode arrays is proposed that makes it possible to determine the most efficient geometry for the placement of the linear arrays relative to the active element, taking into account the characteristics of not only the diode arrays and the active element, but also of the optical cavity that is used. The results of the modelling make it possible to choose the distance between the linear arrays and the active element and the allowable shift of the linear arrays relative to each other, and this optimizes the matching of the excitation and lasing conditions. The proposed optimization method takes into account the divergence and polarization of the radiation of the diode arrays, the geometrical and optical properties of the active element, and the configuration of the lasing mode. The theoretical results of the modelling are compared with the experimental data.