This article emphasizes that a number of details have to be observed to obtain correct characterization of a laser beam, e.g. concerning beam quality. This is vital for getting reliable predictions of beam propagation e.g. through some focusing optics.
This article strongly recommends characterizing the intensity profile of the pump beam before building the resonator of an end-pumped laser. Plenty of possible problems can be quickly detected and cured at this early stage, while later on the trouble could be substantial. Having a proper beam profiler in a laser lab is essential, and trying without can be a waste of resources.
