Shot-Noise-Limited Laser Frequency Stabilization Using a High-Resolution Wavelength Meter

TL;DR

This paper introduces a compact laser frequency stabilization technique using a high-resolution wavelength meter, achieving sub-hundred-kilohertz stability without complex optical components, suitable for portable applications.

Contribution

It demonstrates a novel laser locking method based on a wavelength meter, providing a practical alternative to traditional cavity or atomic references for stable laser operation.

Findings

Achieved laser frequency stability to the wavelength meter's shot-noise limit.

Enabled sub-hundred-kilohertz stability with a simple, compact setup.

Provided a scalable solution for long-term laser frequency stabilization.

Abstract

We present a compact laser frequency stabilization method by locking a 556 nm laser to a high-precision wavelength meter. Unlike traditional schemes that rely on optical cavities or atomic references, we stabilize the laser frequency via a closed-loop feedback system referenced to a wavelength meter. This configuration effectively suppresses long-term frequency drifts, achieving frequency stability to the wavelength meter's shot-noise-limited resolution. The system enables sub-hundred-kilohertz stability without complex optical components, making it suitable for compact or field-deployable applications. Our results demonstrate that, with proper feedback design, wavelength meter-based locking can offer a practical and scalable solution for precision optical experiments requiring long-term frequency stability.