A Solid-state Atomic Frequency Standard

Author: White, Christopher John

Year: 2005

Degree: Dissertation (Ph.D.)

Advisor: Hajimiri, Ali

Committee Members: Hajimiri, Ali; Weitekamp, Daniel P.; Rutledge, David B.; Roukes, Michael Lee; Weinreb, Sander; Bridges, William B.

Option: Electrical Engineering

DOI: 10.7907/ATKE-YX40

Abstract

The thesis describes a new class of frequency reference. The frequency source uses the same operating principle as a passive atomic frequency standard; however, the device is entirely solid-state, removing many cost and reliability issues associated with gas-phase atomic clocks. More specifically, the "atomic resonance" is derived from zero-field magnetic resonance transitions of the vanadium ion in a cubic crystal lattice. The characteristics of these resonances will be described in detail. The apparatus for measuring the "atomic" resonances uses a radio-frequency resonant cavity and frequency discriminator circuit. Using integrated circuits, the radio-frequency signal processing functions can be implemented at very low cost in a reliable manufacturing process. We discuss the system design and the measurement sensitivity. Advantages of the new frequency reference may include immunity to vibration and reduced aging compared to crystal oscillators.

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