Optimization of the stimulated Raman scattering threshold

A theoretical analysis of the threshold condition for stimulated Raman oscillation is presented. The treatment, similar to that applied recently to optical parametric generation, assumes that a low loss resonator is provided for the Stokes radiation and accordingly pump depletion is neglected in the threshold calculation. Diffraction effects are included in detail, within the paraxial ray limits of Gaussian beam theory. The oscillation threshold for the fundamental resonator mode is expressed as a function of resonator losses, focusing conditions of pump and Stokes waves, and the length of the active medium.