Lasing without inversion in three-level systems: Self-pulsing in the cascade schemes

Lasing without inversion ~LWI! in specific models of closed three-level systems is analyzed in terms of nonlinear dynamics. From a linear stability analysis of the trivial nonlasing solution of the homogeneously broadened systems with on-resonance driving and laser fields, we find that, near lasing threshold, resonant closed L and V schemes yield continuous-wave LWI while resonant cascade schemes can give rise to selfpulsing LWI. The origin of this different behavior is discussed. For parameters of a real cascade system in atomic Ba we check numerically that the self-pulsing solution is stable in a broad range of nonzero detunings. It is shown that the self-pulsing emission can still be observed when the typical residual Doppler broadening of an atomic beam is taken into account. @S1050-2947~98!06803-6#