| The University of Hawai'i at Manoa (UHM) Fox-Smith project opens a door for great research opportunities to the fields of high resolution infrared laser spectroscopy, quantum optics, coherent x-ray production and new and fundamental applications of phase-locked pulse trains and coherent frequency combs. An understanding of FEL mode dynamics is essential for facilitating this multimirror laser cavity design and improving laser performance for applications. Of particular interest is the nonlinear mode competition and mode evolution in the time domain which can give insight understanding of FELs' mode spectrum evolution.;In this dissertation, I report the first thorough investigation and analysis of the nonlinear mode competition and mode evolution from the small signal regime through deep saturation using a time domain full particle simulation code based on the fundamental FEL equations of motion. It is found that the passive eigenmode theory of multimirror resonator FEL is not fully applicable in the large signal saturated regime. Extreme mode competition at the midpoint-phase offset versus beamsplitter reflectance indicating enhanced single mode operation is also discovered. In addition, matrix analysis including the proper form of the FEL gain saturation and the phase of the complex gain is also performed.;This dissertation, for the first time known to the author, proposes a Michelson configuration which couples every third pulse. The feasibility and performance of the proposed configuration is elaborately investigated. An experimental design for evaluating the extreme mode competition effect discovered during the course of this dissertation research is described, based on the Mark V FEL in the current Michelson and the proposed new Michelson configurations. Finally, I report the construction and calibration of a Fox-Smith beamsplitter using a rotatable birefringent sapphire plate. High assembly precision is achieved. The angular beam wander caused by the rotation of the beamsplitter is +/-15 murad for the reflection beam and +/-50 murad for the transmission beam, which exceed design specifications. The output coupler carousel subassembly is also assembled, and both subassemblies are completed and ready for final integration in an engineering effort that demands the highest degree of quality control and organization. |
