Product Overview

Acousto-optic Q-switches (AOQS) are intracavity Q-switching devices for laser Q-switching, with high damage threshold and high modulation loss. At the start of pumping, the AOQS adds diffraction loss to the cavity, keeping it in a low-Q state so oscillation cannot start and a large inverted population builds up. When that population saturates, the diffraction loss is suddenly removed, the cavity Q-value jumps, and laser oscillation builds rapidly, converting the stored energy into a high-peak-power giant pulse.

Key Features

• High transmittance: single-pass transmittance up to 99.6%
• Fast switching speed and strong shut-off capability
• High damage threshold: >1.0 GW/cm² @ 1064 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz
• Excellent pulse stability
• Operating wavelengths covering 310 nm–10.6 μm

Highlight Specifications (Typical Configurations)

• Wavelength bands: 1030–1064 nm, 1319–1342 nm, 1550 nm, 1900–2100 nm, and 9.4–10.6 μm
• Apertures: 1 mm to 11.6 mm
• Operating frequencies: 24, 27.12, 40.68, 68, 80, and 100 MHz, depending on configuration
• Modulation loss: >85% (≥75% for the 1900–2100 nm configuration)
• Materials: FS or CQ, depending on configuration

Large-aperture A-O Q-switches need higher RF power for higher diffraction efficiency, so water cooling is required for proper heat dissipation. Full model-by-model specifications and part-number definitions (Model: CAQS-f-a-mt-w-c-h) are available on our website. Visit castech.com for complete details.

Custom Configuration

CASTECH produces its Q-switches independently throughout the entire process and can customize them to your needs. Center frequency, aperture, material and mode, wave type, wavelength, RF connector, and housing can all be specified through the model code.

Applications

• Laser marking
• Medical procedures
• Material processing

Manufacturing Capability

Founded in 1990, CASTECH INC. (Shenzhen Stock Exchange: 002222) has grown over 30+ years into a globally recognized supplier of crystals, optics, and laser components.

• 450,000+ sq ft (approx. 40,000 sqm) manufacturing facility
• 1,000+ employees dedicated to performance and cost-effective solutions
• Around 50% of products exported worldwide
• Products produced independently throughout the entire process, with full customization available to meet specific customer requirements

Get in Touch

Contact CASTECH today to discuss a custom acousto-optic Q-switch for your laser, or visit our website for the full technical datasheet.