A broadband 1.5micron source through type I and II noncollinear phase matching of an optical parametric oscillator

Broadband 1.5 mu m sources are sought for a number of remote-sensing applications. A source with a bandwidth up to 300 nm (FWHM) is demonstrated on the basis of type I noncollinear phase matching of an optical parametric oscillator. A conversion efficiency, from 532 ran pump to broadband 1.5 mu m, of 10% was achieved. The broadband output is angularly dispersed, a feature that is intrinsic to this approach. This was characterized, and methods of compensation were proposed. One of these is the use of type II phase matching, in which the angular dispersion is transferred to the other wave and the broadband output is collimated. This novel scheme has been demonstrated but was of low efficiency owing to a dominant, competing process. (c) 2005 Optical Society of America.