Theoretical analysis is presented to optimize the performance of
passively Q-switched Nd:GdVO4 laser with Cr4+:YAG as a solid state saturable
absorber. A simple model is developed based on numerically solving the passive
Q-switching rate equations, where the impact of the saturable absorber excited
states photon absorption is included. The effects of both the saturable absorber
doping concentration and output coupler reflectivity on the output laser
characteristics are studied. The simulated results show reasonable agreement
with those obtained experimentally by other research groups.