Ring resonator

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Sketch of a ring resonator as a laser

A ring resonator is an optical resonator that is used in laser technology and is mostly used directly as a laser resonator.

construction

In contrast to a linear resonator with only two mirrors, a ring resonator typically consists of four mirrors that direct the laser beam along a closed path. The laser beams can be directed on intersecting paths ("hourglass") or on a path in the form of a "square".

Advantages and disadvantages

By using a ring resonator when setting up a laser, what is known as spatial hole burning can be reduced, since the ring resonator does not produce a standing wave , but a continuous wave . Furthermore, single-mode operation (only a single frequency in the laser light) can be achieved with less frequency-selective elements.

It is used, for example, in the laser gyro .

Further information

• F. Kneubühl, M. Sigrist: Laser . 7th edition. Vieweg + Teubner, Zurich 2008, ISBN 978-3-8351-0145-6 .
• Laser Resonators in the Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology (engl.)
• Ring laser in the Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology (Engl.)