Quantum Limits of Superconducting Heterodyne Receivers
Abstract
An investigation of the behavior of superconducting heterodyne receivers in the quantum limit can be carried out using very low leakage tunnel junctions and relatively low frequencies, such as W-band. Alternatively, very low capacitance small-area junctions with moderate leakage can be used at much higher frequencies. It is necessary in either case to make precise measurements of mixer noise and gain. It is also essential to make precise determinations of the embedding admittances in order to permit comparison between experiment and theory. In addition, extensive computer software must be written in order to carry out the comparisons with quantum mixer theory. In this project, the technology has been developed for both approaches to the study of the quantum limits of SIS heterodyne mixers. All of the factors necessary to make these comparisons in a W-band waveguide mixer have been in place since early 1977. Due to delays in the production at Yale of the special low leakage tunnel junctions required, however, the measurements were postponed until late 1988.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 23, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA201303
Entities
People
- Paul L. Richards
Organizations
- University of California, Davis