Mode‐locking dynamics of homogeneously broadened lasers

The dynamics of the mode‐locking process for homogeneously broadened lasers are investigated. The investigation focuses attention primarily on the temporal development of the pulse width. However, the other parameters characterizing the mode‐locked laser pulse can also be determined in a similar manner. The temporal development of the pulse width is determined for amplitude‐modulated and frequency‐modulated mode‐locked lasers both without and with finite detuning. An important result of this investigation is the determination of the threshold for the mode‐locking process. An estimate of the modulation index required to achieve mode locking is given for amplitude and frequency mode‐locking processes. The effect of detuning on the required modulation index is also determined for both cases.