Efficiency of a nitrogen UV laser pumped by a self-sustained discharge

The features of excitation of a nitrogen laser emitting at the second positive system of nitrogen (the C³Π_α—B³Π_g electronic bands at 337.1 nm) are investigated. The results of the papers, which reported the highest UV lasing efficiencies upon pumping by a self-sustained discharge, are analysed and recommendations are given for achieving the high efficiency of a nitrogen laser. The output characteristics of lasers with a pump on the basis of strip lines and ceramic capacitors are given as functions of the pump parameters and the gas pressure.