Questions Regarding Optical Choppers for YAG Lasers....

[Alaskan]

I read on Sam's laser FAQ that optical choppers are a good, even sometimes a better solution for Q-switching a YAG, but then on other web sites I read optical choppers don't work well due to the way they sweep across the diameter of the rod aperture which won't allow a full release of energy in a short amount of time, and thus lower peak power. Are there any YAG wise guys in this group (I know there are) who can show me that an optical chopper is a good method or not, to produce output peaks nearly as high as an AOM Q switch can produce?

My question regarding mechanical switching is for either a spinning prism or a simple wheel with open slots or holes.

Edit: Also, this question is for either flashed or CW diode pumped YAG's with nanosecond+ pulse outputs, 3 to 100ns or possibly more works for me, but I prefer less than 50ns pulses. I don't even know if I can get that with an optical chopper, thanks!

 

[Alaskan]

I don't know where to go with this question, pointer forums don't embrace them, neither do projector laser hobbyists.

 

[RedCowboy]

https://www.researchgate.net/public...witching_for_flashlamp-pumped_ErCrYSGG_lasers

 

[Alaskan]

They won't let me read the whole article, just a few sentences, but I'm working on finding a way without paying. They have member categories to join, none apply to hobbyists.