Pulsing a HeNe Laser for High Power?
Unlike solid state (e.g., ruby, Nd:YAG) lasers which produce extremely intense short pulses of light, HeNe lasers really are continuous wave devices. It is not possible to obtain high peak power from a HeNe laser by driving it harder, Q-switching, or other exotic techniques. A high voltage power supply that produces short pulses exceeding the tube’s starting requirements will result in output pulses of light. With appropriate design, pulse duration and repetition rate can be controlled. Depending on needs, a flyback transformer or automotive ignition coil may be suitable. The stability of the beam on such short times scales may be questionable and high repetition rate pulsing may result in shortened tube life as well. See the section: Pulse Type Drive and Modulation of HeNe Tubes. As with modulation, mechanical or electro-optic techniques are also possible. A simple chopper wheel in the beam path may be perfectly adequate for your needs and a lot less complex and costly than high tech
