Supercontinuum generation and beatnote detection using ultrafast VECSEL seed oscillators

We present preliminary results showing the potential of VECSEL technology for the generation of high power coherent supercontinuum. Among these results, we demonstrate a stable output power of 16 W with a pulse duration of 71 fs and a repetition rate of 1.7 GHz from a VECSEL oscillator and Ytterbium fiber amplifier. This system was used to generate a coherent supercontinuum averaging 3 W of power using a highly nonlinear photonic crystal fiber. In addition, we discuss the possible methods for the detection and stabilization of the carrier offset frequency. The beatnote between a VECSEL seeded supercontinuum and an external CW laser reveals a relatively stable signal, well above the detection noise. A discussion about system design considerations for noise reduction and increased offset frequency stability is also included.