Patent ID: 6654394
Filing Date: 2003-11-25
Classification: H01S

Abstract:
A method for stabilizing a laser at a selectable frequency, the method comprising the steps of:outputting a beam from a frequency adjustable laser at a selected frequency; splitting the output beam into a first beam and a second beam, the first beam to be used in a separate application after the frequency adjustable laser is stabilized at the selected frequency, the second beam to be used for stabilizing the frequency adjustable laser at the selected frequency; transmitting the second beam through a spectral hole burning material having an inhomogeneously broadened absorption line and capable of supporting a transient spectral hole or holes for a lifetime characteristic of the spectral hole burning material, the transient spectral hole in the inhomogeneously broadened absorption being used as a frequency and/or phase reference, and at least one of the spectrum, amplitude and phase of the second beam being modified via interaction with the spectral hole burning material; transmitting the second beam, after passing through the spectral hole burning material, onto a detector to provide an electrical signal output of sensed changes in the second beam; and adjusting the laser via feedback control, according to an adjusting signal derived from the electrical signal output from the detector, to stabilize the frequency adjustable laser at the selected frequency.