A Solid-state Atomic Frequency Standard

Citation

White, Christopher John (2005) A Solid-state Atomic Frequency Standard. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/ATKE-YX40. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-05242005-172142

Abstract

The thesis describes a new class of frequency reference. The frequency source uses the same operating principle as a passive atomic frequency standard; however, the device is entirely solid-state, removing many cost and reliability issues associated with gas-phase atomic clocks. More specifically, the "atomic resonance" is derived from zero-field magnetic resonance transitions of the vanadium ion in a cubic crystal lattice. The characteristics of these resonances will be described in detail. The apparatus for measuring the "atomic" resonances uses a radio-frequency resonant cavity and frequency discriminator circuit. Using integrated circuits, the radio-frequency signal processing functions can be implemented at very low cost in a reliable manufacturing process. We discuss the system design and the measurement sensitivity. Advantages of the new frequency reference may include immunity to vibration and reduced aging compared to crystal oscillators.

Thesis Files