High-Speed Broadband Thermal Energy Sensors for Pulse-by-Pulse Ultrafast Laser Pulse Characterization

A new generation of thermal high-speed laser energy sensors based on laser-induced transverse voltage (LITV) has been used to measure and characterize pulse-by-pulse energy of fast and ultrafast lasers, up to 800 kHz frequency, and wavelength ranging from ultraviolet (UV) to mid-infrared (MIR).

This system, complemented by specific electronics and measurement methodology, has enabled the detection of each missing pulse – or pulses whose energy was below a defined threshold – and accurately recorded the precise times they occurred.

Results also show the capability of these instruments to detect these events and provide a fast real-time response, thereby enabling enhanced control over laser micromachining processes.