An error accounting algorithm for electron counting experiments

TL;DR

This paper proposes an error accounting algorithm for electron counting experiments that uses error detection in multiple devices to achieve high accuracy, advancing quantum standards for current and capacitance.

Contribution

It introduces a novel architecture that counts only device errors rather than all electrons, simplifying high-precision electron counting.

Findings

Achieves 1 part in 10^8 accuracy with modest error rates

Utilizes error detection to improve counting reliability

Facilitates development of quantum current standards

Abstract

Electron counting experiments attempt to provide a current of a known number of electrons per unit time. We propose architectures utilizing a few readily available electron-pumps or turnstiles with modest error rates of 1 part per $10^4$ with common sensitive electrometers to achieve the desirable accuracy of 1 part in $10^8$. This is achieved not by counting all transferred electrons but by counting only the errors of individual devices; these are less frequent and therefore readily recognized and accounted for. Our proposal thereby eases the route towards quantum based standards for current and capacitance.