Laser theory

[antiicon]

Hey guys,
this is my first time posting here (so if there's already a thread about lasers, please direct me there)

Does anyone know a good source for the theory of lasers (specifically semiconductor lasers) at a second year undergrad level? I've looked at a number of books including Laser Fundamentals (Silvfast), Lasers: Theory and Practice (Hawkes/Latimer) but they both seem to be a little too advanced (for getting though them in a short period of time anyway)...anyone know a book/site that's to the point? I'd really appreciate it :)

[Crumbles]

Welcome to PF antiicon!

Try Howstuffworks (http://science.howstuffworks.com/laser.htm) for the very basics. Then maybe move on to laser FAQ (http://repairfaq.ece.drexel.edu/sam/lasersam.htm)

hope this helps...

[Claude Bile]

I use "Lasers and Electro-Optics" by Davis.

Claude.

[thecolor11]

If you're not interested in a highly mathematical treatment, I might suggest Kuhn's Laser Engineering. There is very little quantum as this book is tailored for engineering applications. It is easily accesible, and provides a nice overview.
TOC:
1.) Introduction to Lasers 2.) Energy States and Gain 3.) The Fabry-Perot Etalon 4.)Transverse Mode Properties 5.) Gain Saturation 6.) Transient Properties 7.) Introduction to Nonlinear Optics 8.) Supportive Technologies 9.) Conventional Gas Lasers 10.) Conventional Solid-State Lasers. 11) Transitional-Metal Solid-State Lasers 12.) Other Major Commercial Lasers

[aliasghar20]

could you give some web address that they were about history of gas laser !
if you know post them in to this E:mail ...
Mohammadzadehaliasghar@yahoo.com

[vanesch]

Does anyone know a good source for the theory of lasers (specifically semiconductor lasers) at a second year undergrad level?

For me, the bible about lasers is Principles of Lasers, by Orazio Svelto. With what you wrote, it is probably a bit too hard for what you want, but the first few chapters should be readable and give you probably the same content as "simpler" treatments, but with the necessary caveats.

cheers,
Patrick.

[StarshipX]

Lasers by Anthony E. Siegman is also very good but maybe too general.