Generalized lock-in amplifier for precision measurement of high frequency signals

TL;DR

This paper introduces a generalized lock-in amplifier utilizing digital cavities for precise high-frequency signal measurement, demonstrating accuracy above 200 MHz and discussing potential for gigahertz range applications.

Contribution

It presents a novel generalized lock-in amplifier concept based on digital cavities, extending precision measurement capabilities to higher frequency signals.

Findings

Accurate measurement of signals above 200 MHz achieved

Comparison shows advantages over traditional lock-in amplifiers

Potential for gigahertz signal measurement via parallel processing

Abstract

We herein formulate the concept of a generalized lock-in amplifier for the precision measurement of high frequency signals based on digital cavities. Accurate measurement of signals higher than 200 MHz using the generalized lock-in is demonstrated. The technique is compared with a traditional lock-in and its advantages and limitations are discussed. We also briefly point out how the generalized lock-in can be used for precision measurement of giga-hertz signals by using parallel processing of the digitized signals.