Effects of axial nonuniformity in modeling Q-switched lasers

Generic Q-switched laser pulses are calculated using a point model and a traveling wave model. Results indicate that the point model approach commonly used in rate equation modeling is inadequate for large initial inversions, large internal losses, or large fractional outcoupling. The point model typically overestimates peak power and energy and distorts the pulse shape. A simple traveling wave model is developed which easily describes these cases. The optimum outcoupling to maximize peak power varies significantly between the two models