Improved microwave SQUID multiplexer readout using a kinetic-inductance traveling-wave parametric amplifier

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that integrating a kinetic-inductance traveling-wave parametric amplifier (KITWPA) into a microwave SQUID multiplexer readout chain significantly reduces flux noise and enhances detector sensitivity, enabling more efficient multiplexing of low-temperature sensors.

Contribution

The study introduces the first use of a KITWPA as the initial amplifier in a microwave SQUID multiplexer, improving flux noise performance and detector readout efficiency.

Findings

Flux noise reduced from 1.6 to 0.77 μΦ₀/√Hz with KITWPA on

Flux noise drops from 0.45 to 0.2 μΦ₀/√Hz at optimal bias

Successful detection of background radiation with the new scheme

Abstract

We report on the use of a kinetic-inductance traveling-wave parametric amplifier (KITWPA) as the first amplifier in the readout chain of a microwave superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) multiplexer (umux). This umux is designed to multiplex signals from arrays of low temperature detectors such as superconducting transition-edge sensor microcalorimeters. When modulated with a periodic flux-ramp to linearize the SQUID response, the flux noise improves, on average, from $1.6$ $\mu\Phi_0/\sqrt{\mathrm{Hz}}$ with the KITWPA off, to $0.77$ $\mu\Phi_0/\sqrt{\mathrm{Hz}}$ with the KITWPA on. When statically biasing the umux to the maximally flux-sensitive point, the flux noise drops from $0.45$ $\mu\Phi_0/\sqrt{\mathrm{Hz}}$ to $0.2$ $\mu\Phi_0/\sqrt{\mathrm{Hz}}$. We validate this new readout scheme by coupling a transition-edge sensor microcalorimeter to the umux and detecting background radiation. The combination of umux and KITWPA provides a variety of new capabilities including improved detector sensitivity and more efficient bandwidth utilization.