Subpicosecond synchroscan operation of a Photochron IV streak camera

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Abstract
The electronic drive circuitry employed in the operation of a synchroscan Photochron IV streak camera is described. The experimental performance of two synchronization systems, a passive configuration (whereby the deflection signal is derived directly from a mode‐locked pulse source) and an active system (incorporating a tunnel‐diode oscillator phase locked to the laser), have been compared. A semiquantitative assessment of phase noise in the deflection signal and its effects on achievable temporal resolution is detailed and tested experimentally. On the basis of this analysis it has been possible to optimize the streak circuitry and thereby demonstrate a limiting instrumental resolution of 930 fs.