Understanding Laser Beam Quality Beyond M2

Y. G. Soskind; M. G. Soskind

doi:10.1117/12.2237354

27 September 2016 Understanding Laser Beam Quality Beyond M²

Y. G. Soskind, M. G. Soskind

Proceedings Volume 9950, Laser Beam Shaping XVII; 99500E (2016) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2237354
Event: SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications, 2016, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The laser beam M² quality parameter is based on the second moments’ theory, as defined by ISO standards, and provides a common approach for defining the propagation characteristics of laser beams as a whole. At the same time, the M² parameter fails to quantitatively distinguish the quality of laser beams with different spatial characteristics. For example, several laser beams with very different spatial profiles may have the same M² value. To overcome this ambiguity, a different beam quality criterion is introduced, allowing for a quantitative definition of both the structured laser beam shape and its propagation characteristics. This criterion, called the encircled power M² (EPM²), bridges the gap between the M² quality parameter and the structured laser beam shape. Based on several examples we demonstrate the utility of EPM² as applied to characterization of several structured laser beam types.

Citation Download Citation

Y. G. Soskind and M. G. Soskind "Understanding Laser Beam Quality Beyond M²", Proc. SPIE 9950, Laser Beam Shaping XVII, 99500E (27 September 2016); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2237354

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