Efficient frequency conversion of a passively Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at 946 nm in periodically poled KTiOPO_4

Abstract
Efficient continuous-wave and passively Q-switched diode-laser-pumped Nd:YAG lasers at 946 nm are reported together with results on highly efficient frequency doubling. Periodically poled KTiOPO4 was employed as the nonlinear material because of its high nonlinearity and its resistance to photorefractive damage. In the blue spectral region we measured 76 mW in continuous wave and 285 mW in the Q-switched mode.