Ultra-Compact Conductively Cooled Acousto-Optic Q-Switch: An Efficient Pulse Control Solution for DP

Time: Oct 16, 2025 Author: Sintec Optronics View: 17

In the field of Diode-Pumped Solid-State (DPSS) lasers, the Acousto-Optic Q-Switch (AO Q-Switch) is a core component for achieving short-pulse output. Our 41/68/80MHz series of ultra-compact conductively cooled acousto-optic Q-switches, with their compact size, stable performance, and flexible customization capabilities, have become an ideal choice for miniaturized, low-power lasers. They are widely compatible with mainstream DPSS laser systems such as Nd:YAG and Nd:YVO₄.

Core Advantages: Conductive Cooling + Compact Design, Breaking Application Limitations

Traditional acousto-optic Q-switches often rely on active cooling systems, which not only increase the size of the equipment but also raise power consumption and maintenance costs. This series of products addresses this pain point through three core designs:

  • Conductive Cooling Technology: No fans or water-cooling devices are required. Heat dissipation is achieved solely through base conduction, supporting operation with 15-20W CW RF power and simplifying the overall structure of the laser;

  • Ultra-Small Size Design: Some models (such as the I-QS080 series) have a minimum size of only 42x12x15mm, which can be easily integrated into short-cavity lasers to meet the miniaturization needs of equipment;

  • High-Stability Materials: Mainstream models use Crystal Quartz as the interaction material, which combines high thermal conductivity and optical efficiency. Some special models (such as QS080-2G-3D1) use Tellurium Dioxide to achieve polarization-insensitive characteristics, making them compatible with more laser scenarios.

Three Frequency Series: Covering Multi-Scenario Laser Requirements

Based on differences in RF frequency, this series of products is divided into three categories: 41MHz, 68MHz, and 80MHz. Each has a clear application focus and can match DPSS lasers with different wavelengths and polarization states.

1. 41MHz Series: The Choice for High Power and High Modulation Efficiency

Designed specifically for high-power linearly polarized DPSS lasers, the core parameters and model highlights are as follows:

  • Applicable Scenarios: Nd:YAG/Nd:YVO₄ lasers with wavelengths of 1047-1064nm, especially suitable for scenarios requiring large active apertures of 1.6-1.8mm;

  • Key Performance: Loss modulation rate > 85%, single-pass transmission rate > 99.6%, damage threshold > 1GW/cm², and stable operation with 20W CW RF power;

  • Representative Models: QS041-10G-SO3 (1.6mm aperture), QS041-10G-IN2 (1.8mm aperture). They can be quickly activated when paired with the R39041-20DMFPS-SC driver.

2. 68MHz Series: Exclusive Solution for Mid-to-Far Infrared Lasers

This series is one of the few acousto-optic Q-switches compatible with 1540nm mid-to-far infrared wavelengths, filling a gap in specific fields:

  • Core Features: Uses Fused Silica as the interaction material, supports random polarization, has an active aperture of 1.0mm, and is suitable for low-power (maximum 10W RF) mid-to-far infrared laser systems;

  • Performance Advantages: 3dB modulation bandwidth up to 4.2MHz, beam separation angle of 28mrad, and diffraction efficiency > 10% under 6W RF power, meeting the requirements of precise infrared laser control;

  • Standard Configuration: Models are based on QS068-4J-xxx, and can be used plug-and-play when paired with the N39068-10DSA05 driver.

3. 80MHz Series: The First Choice for Miniature Short-Cavity Lasers

As the currently mass-produced ultra-small acousto-optic Q-switch, the 80MHz series is a core component of miniature DPSS lasers:

  • Size Breakthrough: Some models (such as 97-03277-01) have an active aperture of 1.0mm, with a compact size that can be integrated into the shortest cavity structure, supporting pulse repetition rates above 100kHz;

  • Flexible Compatibility: Covers both polarization-sensitive and polarization-insensitive types, with a maximum loss modulation rate of 90% (in linearly polarized scenarios) and a damage threshold of 500MW-1GW/cm², compatible with mainstream wavelengths of 1030-1064nm;

  • Representative Models: I-QS080-1.5C10G-4-SO12 (1.5mm aperture, 20W RF), QS080-2G-3D1 (polarization-insensitive, 3W RF), meeting different power and polarization requirements.

Customization Capabilities: Full-Dimensional Adaptation to Needs from Parameters to Structure

Considering the diversity of laser application scenarios, we provide comprehensive customization services to solve adaptation problems in special scenarios:

  • Parameter Customization: Supports adjustment of RF frequency (non-standard 41/68/80MHz), active aperture (0.5-2.5mm), and wavelength range (can be extended to other DPSS laser wavelengths);

  • Structural Customization: Provides aluminum alloy housing designs of different sizes to adapt to the installation rails and spatial layout of specific lasers;

  • Supporting Services: Our professional team can assist in selecting matching RF drivers (such as the QCXXX-YYDC-ZZZ-AAV series) and provide technical support to ensure efficient collaboration between the Q-switch and the laser system.

Whether for industrial laser processing, short-pulse lasers for scientific research, or miniature laser equipment in the medical and communication fields, the 41/68/80MHz series of conductively cooled acousto-optic Q-switches can provide cost-effective pulse control solutions with their compact design, stable performance, and flexible customization capabilities. If you have special application requirements, please contact us through official channels to obtain exclusive technical solutions and product quotations.

For more information on our Q-switches, please click here.