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Pulse Energy–Power Converter

Convert between pulse energy, average power, peak power, fluence, and irradiance for pulsed laser beams.

Pulsed laser parameters are linked through three relationships: average power equals pulse energy times repetition rate (P_avg = Q × f_rep); peak power equals a shape-factor-corrected pulse energy divided by pulse duration (φ_pk = k × Q / τ); and fluence and peak irradiance follow when a beam area is provided. This tool converts between those quantities given pulse energy, repetition rate, pulse duration, and pulse shape (Gaussian, sech², or rectangular — each carrying a different peak-to-average ratio correction factor). An optional beam waist radius input extends the calculation to per-unit-area quantities: fluence in J/cm² and peak irradiance in W/cm². These are the quantities that determine material processing thresholds, nonlinear absorption onsets, and optical damage limits in coatings and bulk media.

Input
Power
Average power
P_avg = Q × f_rep
500mW
Peak power
φ_pk = k × Q / τ
5.871MW
Abridged Optics — Pulse Energy–Power Converter v1.0Shape factors: Gaussian k = 0.9394 · sech² k = 0.8813 · Rectangular k = 1.0

All information, equations, and calculations have been compiled and verified to the best of our ability. For mission-critical applications, we recommend independent verification of all values. If you find an error, please let us know.