Edge-pumped quasi-three-level slab lasers: Design and power scaling

We present a novel design for a quasi-three-level laser. The design uses a slab laser configuration with the pump light incident from the slab edge. This allows a lower threshold and better power scaling than a conventional face-pumped slab. We present an analytic description of pumping optimization, thermal distortion, and power scaling. Several point designs illustrating power scaling are also described.