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Journal of Low Temperature Physics

Improving Amplification Bandwidth by Combining Josephson Parametric Amplifiers for Active Axion Search Experiments at IBS/CAPP

Sergey V. Uchaikin, Jinmyeong Kim, Boris I. Ivanov, Arjan F. van Loo, Yasunobu Nakamura, Saebyeok Ahn, Seonjeong Oh, Seongtae Park, Andrei N. Matlashov, Woohyun Chung, Yannis Kyriakos Semertzidis

Published Jul 1, 2024• 5 citations

Abstract

Abstract IBS/CAPP in South Korea is home to multiple active axion search experiments using cavity haloscopes that operate within the frequency range of 1-6 GHz. The haloscopes convert axions to photons, resulting in an output power of about 10-24 to 10-22 W. To detect such a small signal amidst noise, quantum-limited noise amplifiers and ultra-low-temperature environment (∼10 mK) are required for all critical read-out components to minimize noise from all of active and passive lossy components. Additionally, operating at low dissipation levels is necessary to maintain the haloscope and amplifier at a temperature of 25-40 mK. Our primary objective is to achieve the highest possible scanning-frequency speed, which includes the time for maintenance and system calibration. For the CAPP-MAX flagship experiment, we achieved a record speed of 3 MHz/day for the DFSZ-level axion sensitivity during uninterrupting measurements. This paper presents the development and operation of low-noise amplifiers for five haloscope experiments targeting different frequency ranges and provides design, operational, and performance details of the amplifiers.

DOI: 10.1007/s10909-024-03090-5

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We present the development of two complementary amplifier architectures for axion haloscope experiments, based on two types of Josephson Parametric Amplifiers (JPAs).The first employs a multi-chip module of flux-driven JPAs in a parallel-series configuration, enabling near quantum-limited amplification over an extended tunable range of between 1.2 and 1.5 GHz.The second design features a lumped-element JPA, offering continuous tunability across a wide frequency range from 2.4 to 4 GHz.Both approaches demonstrate near-quantum-limited noise performance and are compatible with operation in cryogenic environments.These amplifiers significantly enhance the sensitivity and frequency coverage of axion search experiments, and also provide new opportunities for broadband quantum sensing applications.

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the development of flux-driven Josephson Parametric Amplifiers (JPAs) as Quantum Noise Limited Amplifier for axion search experiments conducted at the Center for Axion and Precision Physics Research (CAPP) of the Institute for Basic Science. It focuses on the characterization, and optimization of JPAs, which are crucial for achieving the highest sensitivity in axion particle detection. We discuss various characterization techniques, methods for improving bandwidth, and the attainment of ultra-low noise temperatures. JPAs have emerged as indispensable tools in CAPP’s axion search endeavors, playing a significant role in advancing our understanding of fundamental physics and unraveling the mysteries of the Universe.

Abstract We present a novel amplifier configuration that combines six relatively narrow-band flux-drive Josephson Parametric Amplifiers (JPAs) to extend the bandwidth for the axion search experiments. We have addressed challenges related to the tuning and cross-talk resulting from JPA band overlap while maintaining low noise levels. Our measurements demonstrate that the added noise by an RF chain, with the JPA acting as the primary stage amplifier, remains between 75 and 175 mK from 1.19 to 1.33 GHz and from 1.36 to 1.5 GHz.

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We report results of our development of two types of microwave amplifiers based on Superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) for CAPP (Center for Axion and Precision Physics Research) axion search experiments. The first amplifier, Microstrip SQUID Amplifier (MSA) has a wide bandwidth. Power dissipation in resistive shunts results in a device overheating and limits the MSA performances. A thermal models of shunt cooling processes is developed and recommendations for a future design is provided. The second amplifier, Josephson Parametric Amplifier (JPA), at limited bandwidth showed a low noise near the standard quantum limit (SQL) of 196 mK. Implementation of a JPA in CULTASK (CAPP's Ultra-Low Temperature Axion Search in Korea) experiment is planned in the end of 2019.