Comparison of SNSPDs biased with microwave and direct currents

TL;DR

This study compares superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors biased with microwave and direct currents, introducing a hybrid detector for direct comparison and demonstrating rf bias as a reference signal in synchronous detection.

Contribution

We developed a hybrid SNSPD allowing direct comparison of dc and rf biasing, and demonstrated rf bias as a reference in synchronous photon detection.

Findings

Count rates differ between dc and rf biasing.

Rf bias can serve as a stable reference signal.

Hybrid detector enables direct bias mode comparison.

Abstract

This paper presents a detailed investigation of superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) biased with microwave and direct currents. We developed a hybrid detector, which allows the operation in the rf and dc operation mode. With this hybrid detector, we are able to compare the count rates of the same nanowire biased with dc and rf currents. Furthermore, we demonstrate the use of the oscillating current in the rf operation mode as a reference signal in a synchronous single-photon detection mode.