ABCD matrix formalism for real laser

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    Gaussian beam Laser
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on using the ABCD matrix formalism to determine the beam waist of a Gaussian beam in an optical setup. The user has the initial waist from laser specifications but is uncertain about the wavefront radius needed for accurate calculations. They inquire whether the wavefront can be assumed to be zero at the minimum waist distance, highlighting a gap in available information regarding wavefront properties. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding both waist and wavefront parameters for precise optical design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Gaussian beam properties
  • Familiarity with ABCD matrix formalism
  • Basic knowledge of optical systems and lens design
  • Experience with laser specifications and beam propagation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Gaussian beam propagation and its parameters
  • Study the ABCD matrix method in detail for optical systems
  • Explore techniques for measuring wavefront radius in laser beams
  • Investigate the relationship between beam waist and focal length in lens systems
USEFUL FOR

Optical engineers, physicists working with lasers, and anyone involved in designing optical systems requiring precise beam manipulation.

kelly0303
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Hello! I have an optical setup and a laser producing a gaussian beam and I would like to get the waist of the beam at the end of the setup (i actually want to know what focal length to use for some lenses, such that I get a certain beam waist in the end). Getting the ABCD matrix for my setup is straightforward (I don't need to be super accurate, e.g. I don't account for the lenses thickness), but I am not sure about the initial properties of the beams. For a gaussian beam (which is my case), the 2 parameters that get propagated using ABCD formalism are the waist and the radius of the wavefront of the beam. I have the waist at the beginning of my setup from the laser specifications (they provide waist vs distance from the laser head), but I can't seem to find any information about the wavefront and I am a bit confused about how to obtain that. In their waist vs length plot there is a minimum, can I assume that the wavefront is zero there, or is that not generally the case? Thank you!
 

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