Low threshold, diode end-pumped Nd3+:GdVO4 self-Raman laser

Low threshold, high efficient Raman laser output has been realized from a compact, diode end-pumped, self-stimulating Nd3+:GdVO4 Raman laser. Maximum Raman output power of 100 mW was achieved at a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of 10 kHz with 1.8 W pump power. The optical efficiency is 5.6% from diode to Raman laser and the slope efficiency is 8%. The lowest threshold for the SRS process is only 400 mW at a PRF of 5 kHz. By generating second harmonics using a LBO crystal, 3 mW 588 nm yellow laser was also produced. A strong blue emission was observed in the Nd3+:GdVO4 crystal when the Raman laser output, we contribute this for the upconversion of the Nd3+ in the crystal.