Pulsed Lasers: Phase Matching Techniques

This lecture covers the principles of pulsed lasers, focusing on phase matching techniques in nonlinear optics. It discusses the classification of second-order nonlinear processes, birefringent materials, the index ellipsoid, and the normal modes in anisotropic materials. The lecture also explores acousto-optical and electro-optical modulators, Q-switching, and mode-locking phenomena. It delves into the generation of short light pulses, transient lasing behaviors, and dispersion control in ultrashort pulses. Additionally, it explains the measurement of ultrashort pulses using techniques like FROG and the challenges in amplifying ultrashort pulses.