Acousto-optic Q switches for YAG:Nd lasers

A report is given of the development and of tests on a Q switch for continuously pumped YAG:Nd lasers. The switch operates in the Raman–Nath diffraction range. The results are given of a study of the propagation of acoustic waves in such a switch, and also of the acoustic and electrical matching of all the parts of the switch. It is shown that the presence of a reflected acoustic wave in an optical medium is an undesirable effect.