Status of Local Oscillators for Operating Ultra-High Resolution Frequency Discriminators as Frequency Standards
Abstract
The operation of new improved frequency standards based on new ultra-high-resolution frequency discriminators requires high stability local, or "flywheel" oscillators. We review the spectral density of phase fluctuations of existing flywheel oscillators and the related time domain frequency stability of new and proposed crgogenically cooled oscillators suitable for this application. Presently used devices include the quartz crystal oscillator, the room-temperature actively oscillating atomic hydrogen (H) maser and the superconducting maser oscillator. Future devices include the cryogenic H-maser and other cryogenic devices using resonators of superconducting metal or solid crystalline sapphire. The relation of the phase spectral density of these devices to the characteristics of present and proposed frequency discriminators based on trapped cooled ions and cold atoms is discussed in terms of their operation as frequency standards.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA502027
Entities
People
- E. M. Mattison
- M. W. Levine
- R. F. Vessot
- Ronald L. Walsworth
Organizations
- Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory