June 1, 1999
      
                  
        
  Author(s)
  Roger D.  van Zee,   Joseph T.  Hodges,   J P. Looney
 
       
            
    
    
        This paper demonstrates an implementation of single mode cavity ring-down spectroscopy, using a pulse laser system, with near shot-noise limited sensitivity. The rationale for this approach is discussed, the experimental apparatus is described, and the