Nd:MgO:LiNbO3 waveguide laser and amplifier

Nd:MgO: LiNbO3 is a promising material that combines the good laser gain of Nd3+with the electro-optic and nonlinear properties of LiNbO3.1-3 In a waveguide configuration, this combination offers the possibility of realizing highly efficient laser-diode-pumped lasers and amplifiers, self-frequency doubled lasers, integrated laser/modulator structures, etc. Recently, we reported the first demonstration of a channel waveguide laser with this material.4 In this paper we report on increased laser performances and the first amplifier measurements using a new, low loss, and more-confined waveguide structure.