Pockels cell

Claim 1

An electro-optic modulator unit which forms an integrated module for direct incorporation into a laser structure comprising: an uniaxial crystal which exhibits an electro-optic Pockels effect selected from the group consisting of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium dideutrium phosphate, and potassium dihydrogen phosphate, the uniaxial crystal having a pair of polished parallel faces thereon with the crystal optic axis essentially normal thereto; a cylindrical sleeve in which the uniaxial crystal is disposed with the optic axis parallel with the axis of the sleeve; a pair of transparent windows disposed in the sleeve closely adjacent to the opposite polished parallel faces of the uniaxial crystal; an electrode disposed between and fastened to each of the polished parallel faces of the uniaxial crystal and the respective adjacent window, the electrodes being at least partially formed of an electrically conducting elastomeric material, the electrodes being disposed against each of the polished parallel faces of the uniaxial crystal in a similar configuration such that an electric field generated by application of electric potential across the uniaxial crystal is parallel to the optic axis of the crystal; means for connecting the electrodes to a suitable source of electric potential; and an encapsulating material for mounting the assembly of the crystal, the windows, and the interposed electrodes firmly in the cylindrical sleeve so that a durable unit is formed which is sealed so as to protect the crystal from moisture and to isolate the electrodes from each other.