OPSL

[Darcean]

One thing I've wondered for awhile... Is how is a OPSL made? I know its probably a patented secret at this point in time, but what makes it so expensive to make compared to a DPSS, or even a diode module? I've done some research, but I would like to ignite a discussion upon the subject.

[mixedgas]

Which OPSL?, some are directly diode pumped, I'm told green DPSS is used to pump one model of red. Others are rumored to be OPO based.

Its not all that secret. Nor is it all that expensive for what it is.

The lasing wafer is made by some form of epitaxy in semiconductor fab. Its not simple as it has multiple quantum wells and a Bragg reflector built in to the crystal. It lases for the most part in the IR and a doubling crystal does the conversion.

The expensive part is ALL of it plus recouping the R&D costs. Obviously to get a watt of red requires a high power, high quality green pump. Blue is directly diode pumped.

It is not cheap to have/operate a MBE/MOCVD line, unless its contracted out, you just bought a minor scale semi fab to make them.

Here is what Coherent does publically mention of it. If this is published, its already obsolete or published to aid in potental patent defense.

http://lib.semi.ac.cn:8080/tsh/dzzy/...2/5332-143.pdf

Keep in mind, in the US, patents lock other makers out in this case.
There is one European group that does publish research in this area.

The patents are listed at the end of the paper, above.

Rule of thumb for stock commercial gear. Divide the single item sales cost of a bulk item by 4 to 5 and you have the possible manufacturing cost. For one off scientific lasers, the ratio is 20:1 or 9:1 or more, simply because it costs more to make a few units then a batch.

Steve

[macona]

It is not cheap to have/operate a MBE/MOCVD line,
Steve

Mega Buck Epitaxy?

[mixedgas]

Mega Buck Epitaxy?

Strong the force is in you, go you to Engineering school.

Steve

[planters]

More like;

"Strong the force is in you. To Engineering school must you go"

No?

[kecked]

so make some for cheap and make us all happy laserists

[danielbriggs]

I've a 400+ page book on my shelf full of the inner workings and development of virtually all OPS types. I'll have to dig it out if there is anything specific you need to know.

[steve-o]

I've a 400+ page book on my shelf full of the inner workings and development of virtually all OPS types. I'll have to dig it out if there is anything specific you need to know.

Yeah, the components needed to make a home-made one for 200 bucks or so ..

[shrad]

I have some kind of OPS active mirrors acquired long time ago, which are indium soldered on plated copper pads... I might sell them if there is interest, but they are old R&D scraps and I have no warranty whatsoever... some were marked "blue" and some had stickers with gray tracking damage emplacement... I guess they were for doubled IR => blue

[Darcean]

I've a 400+ page book on my shelf full of the inner workings and development of virtually all OPS types. I'll have to dig it out if there is anything specific you need to know.

Could you by chance direct me to a place where I can buy that book? =)