I'm considering testing whether the 445nm diodes can pump a ruby for pulsed operation, much the same as in using a flashlamp, but with only this narrow band (which I read to be in the mid of one of the pumping bands). If it works, I may decide to see if LBO or BBO doubling works as well.
However, I'm wondering whether anyone has tried it (in which case duplicating the test is less attractive), and whether anyone knows a good source for a small ruby rod? The ones in most listings are positively huge, and the one I already have is definitely too large for a test.
Ideally, I would prefer a thin disc, coated or not.
The same trick should work for Ti:S with reduced efficiency, but I've been unable to find any sources that don't charge exhorbitant sums for even the smallest sample quantities. Anyone looking to part with one can PM me, of course.
Anyway, any good sources for small ruby rods or discs, or any advice on the attempt?
However, I'm wondering whether anyone has tried it (in which case duplicating the test is less attractive), and whether anyone knows a good source for a small ruby rod? The ones in most listings are positively huge, and the one I already have is definitely too large for a test.
Ideally, I would prefer a thin disc, coated or not.
The same trick should work for Ti:S with reduced efficiency, but I've been unable to find any sources that don't charge exhorbitant sums for even the smallest sample quantities. Anyone looking to part with one can PM me, of course.
Anyway, any good sources for small ruby rods or discs, or any advice on the attempt?