Numerical and experimental investigation of a continuous-wave and passively mode-locked Yb:YAG laser at a wavelength of 1.05 microm.

We present the results of a novel numerical and experimental investigation aimed at obtaining efficient 1.05 mum operation with a Yb:YAG laser. The model shows that the emitting wavelength of the Yb:YAG laser is affected by the combination of length and doping concentration of the gain medium. Efficient continuous-wave laser operation at the wavelength of 1050 nm was experimentally obtained in good agreement with the model predictions. Based on continuous-wave operation, generation of 1.8 ps laser pulses at the central wavelength of 1050 nm, as well as 170 fs laser pulses at the central wavelength of 1053 nm, were realized.