On the statistics of mode partition noise in a nearly single-mode cw laser

The probability density function of the mode partition noise of a nearly single-mode cw laser is discussed. Nearly single-mode lasers are modeled here as those with a single dominant mode and 2 n side modes with nonnegligible strengths. The drop out rate of each side mode obeys an exponential distribution. The combined probability density function of the drop out rate for 2 n side modes is derived here. This density is evaluated when side modes with various intensities are present.