Knowledge How do the pulse durations of picosecond and nanosecond AQSW devices compare? Maximize Precision with Shorter Pulses
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Tech Team · Belislaser

Updated 2 hours ago

How do the pulse durations of picosecond and nanosecond AQSW devices compare? Maximize Precision with Shorter Pulses


Picosecond AQSW devices operate with significantly shorter pulse durations compared to traditional nanosecond devices. While standard nanosecond units feature pulse durations ranging from 6 to 40 nanoseconds, picosecond devices compress this duration down to between 500 and 800 picoseconds. This reduction results in a pulse speed that is effectively 6 to 10 times faster.

By shifting from the nanosecond to the picosecond range, AQSW devices achieve a "sub-nano" classification. This allows the system to deliver equivalent energy in a fraction of the time, dramatically increasing the peak power of each pulse.

Defining the Time Scale

The Difference in Magnitude

To understand the comparison, one must first grasp the scale. A nanosecond represents one-billionth of a second.

In contrast, a picosecond is one-trillionth of a second. This difference in magnitude allows for much finer temporal resolution in laser physics and electronic switching.

Traditional Nanosecond Parameters

Standard Actively Q-switched (AQSW) devices have long operated within the nanosecond regime.

These traditional units typically output pulses with durations between 6 and 40 nanoseconds. This range has been the historical benchmark for many energy delivery systems.

The Picosecond Evolution

Newer AQSW technology pushes into the picosecond domain, often referred to technically as "sub-nano."

These devices operate with pulse durations strictly between 500 and 800 picoseconds. This represents a massive reduction in the time the energy is emitted.

Performance Implications

Speed and Energy Delivery

The primary advantage of the picosecond device is the speed of delivery.

Because the duration is compressed to 500–800 picoseconds, the pulse is 6 to 10 times faster than its nanosecond counterpart.

Equivalent System Energy

Despite the drastic difference in speed, the total energy output does not necessarily decrease.

Picosecond devices are capable of delivering equivalent system energy to traditional devices. The key difference is that this energy is delivered in a much shorter, more intense burst.

Understanding the Trade-offs

Pulse Compression vs. Total Energy

It is critical not to confuse pulse speed with total energy generation.

While the picosecond device is faster, it is not creating more energy; it is compressing the same amount of energy into a smaller timeframe.

Classification Specifics

Users must be precise with terminology when selecting devices.

While 500 picoseconds is technically "sub-nano," it is a specific subset of the picosecond range. Ensure your application requires this specific 500 to 800 picosecond window rather than a deep picosecond (e.g., <10 ps) requirement.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

When choosing between these AQSW technologies, the decision rests on the required speed of energy delivery rather than total energy capacity.

  • If your primary focus is standard pulse durations: Rely on traditional AQSW devices operating in the 6 to 40 nanosecond range.
  • If your primary focus is rapid energy delivery: Select picosecond (sub-nano) devices to achieve pulse speeds 6 to 10 times faster with equivalent energy.

Ultimately, picosecond technology offers a way to intensify power density by compressing the same energy payload into a significantly tighter timeframe.

Summary Table:

Feature Nanosecond AQSW Picosecond (Sub-Nano) AQSW
Pulse Duration 6 - 40 Nanoseconds 500 - 800 Picoseconds
Relative Speed Standard 6 to 10 Times Faster
Energy Output Standard System Energy Equivalent System Energy
Peak Power Moderate Significantly Higher
Classification Traditional Nano Sub-Nano / Picosecond

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