Universal monitor for CO2 lasers

A system was developed for characterizing the profile, average power, and pulse shape of a CO2 laser beam. The design includes an integrating sphere, a pyroelectric detector, interchangeable chopper-wheel attenuators, and relatively simple circuitry that can be expanded to accommodate inputs in excess of 10 kW. The profile of the entire beam is rapidly scanned and displayed in a three-dimensional oscilloscope pattern. Average power was determined by a synchronous rectifier and was read with a digital voltmeter. The pulse shape was monitored by the use of conventional oscilloscope techniques. This system greatly simplifies the on-site calibration of CO2 lasers in factory areas.