The parts for laser typically include the following components:
Laser Medium (Gain Medium): This is the material that generates the laser light. It can be a solid, liquid, gas, or semiconductor. When excited by an energy source, the laser medium produces photons (particles of light) that travel in a coherent beam.
Energy Source (Pump Source): The energy source provides the necessary energy to excite the laser medium and promote the atoms or molecules to a higher energy state. This can be achieved through electrical discharge, light, or chemical reactions.
Resonator (Optical Cavity): The resonator consists of two or more mirrors that reflect the light back and forth through the laser medium. This process causes the photons to stimulate the emission of more photons, resulting in a buildup of laser light. The resonator also ensures that the laser light is emitted in a narrow beam.
Output Coupler: This is a partially reflecting mirror that allows a fraction of the laser light to escape the resonator while reflecting the rest back into the laser medium. This helps build up the laser light intensity within the resonator.
Q-Switch: A Q-switch is an optional component that controls the duration and intensity of the laser pulse. It can be used to produce short, high-intensity pulses for applications such as laser cutting or welding.
Beam Expander/Collimator: These optics are used to adjust the size and divergence of the laser beam. They help ensure that the beam has the desired characteristics for the intended application.
Cooling System: Lasers generate heat during operation, so a cooling system is necessary to maintain the temperature of the laser medium and other components. This can be achieved through air cooling, water cooling, or other methods.
Control Electronics: The control electronics manage the operation of the laser, including the energy source, resonator, and other components. They allow the user to set parameters such as laser power, pulse duration, and beam size.