Single-frequency operation in solid-state laser materials with short absorption depths

Single-frequency output power of 35 mW has been observed in 3.0% doped Nd:YVO/sub 4/ pumped with a 200-mW laser diode. The single-frequency operation is due to the spatial overlap of longitudinal modes at the surface of a mirror in the laser cavity where the material is pumped. The strong absorption coefficient at 808.7 nm and narrow bandwidth of the Nd:YVO/sub 4/ only allow a single laser mode to operate. The effect is modeled theoretically and compared with the experiment.>