Phase-Sensitive Detection in the undergraduate lab using a low-cost microcontroller

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how to implement phase-sensitive detection using a low-cost microcontroller like Arduino, making the technique accessible for undergraduate labs and educational purposes.

Contribution

It presents a method to create a self-contained PSD device with microcontrollers, simplifying the learning process for students and reducing reliance on expensive commercial equipment.

Findings

Successfully implemented PSD with Arduino microcontroller

Educational approach simplifies complex signal processing concepts

Provides a cost-effective alternative for teaching PSD in labs

Abstract

Phase-sensitive detection (PSD) is an important experimental technique that allows signals to be extracted from noisy data. PSD is also used in modulation spectroscopy and is used in the stabilization of optical sources. Commercial lock-in amplifiers that use PSD are often expensive and host a bewildering array of controls that may intimidate a novice user. Low-cost microcontrollers such as the Arduino family of devices seem like a good match for learning about PSD; however, making a self-contained device (reference signal, voltage input, mixing, filtering, and display) is difficult, but in the end the project teaches students "tricks" to turn the Arduino into a true scientific instrument.