GLOW-DISCHARGE GAS LASER Russian patent published in 2001 - IPC

FIELD: quantum electronics; ring gas lasers. SUBSTANCE: laser has insulating monoblock incorporating gas-discharge channels. They are spaced through certain angle apart to form closed polygonal (ring) structure. Channels are interconnected via cavities located at side surface of monoblock. Cold cathode is made in the form of conducting coating on side surface of sealed cylindrical cathode cavity. The latter has on both ends insulating bosses protruding to this cavity and used to protect cathode edges against dusting. Each boss has opening on one end to provide communication between this cavity and gas-discharge channels of laser. Each insulating boss protruding to cathode cavity has developed end surface whose size is higher than that characterizing spatial nonuniformity of plasma at this surface. The latter is covered with conducting film of cathode material. EFFECT: enhanced reliability and lifetime under vibration- impact loads. 4 cl, 3 dwg