arXiv subjects

E. M. Levenson-Falk

Publications and source records attributed to E. M. Levenson-Falk.

14 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2022

Suppression of crosstalk in superconducting qubits using dynamical decoupling

Currently available superconducting quantum processors with interconnected transmon qubits are noisy and prone to various errors. The errors can be attributed to sources such as open quantum system effects and spurious inter-qubit couplings (crosstalk). The ZZ-coupling between qubits in fixed frequency transmon architectures is always present and contributes to both coherent and incoherent crosstalk errors. Its suppression is therefore a key step towards enhancing the fidelity of quantum computation using transmons. Here we propose the use of dynamical decoupling to suppress the crosstalk, and demonstrate the success of this scheme through experiments performed on several IBM quantum cloud processors. In particular, we demonstrate improvements in quantum memory as well as the performance of single-qubit and two-qubit gate operations. We perform open quantum system simulations of the multi-qubit processors and find good agreement with the experimental results. We analyze the performance of the protocol based on a simple analytical model and elucidate the importance of the qubit drive frequency in interpreting the results. In particular, we demonstrate that the XY4 dynamical decoupling sequence loses its universality if the drive frequency is not much larger than the system-bath coupling strength. Our work demonstrates that dynamical decoupling is an effective and practical way to suppress crosstalk and open system effects, thus paving the way towards higher-fidelity logic gates in transmon-based quantum computers.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2021

Predicting non-Markovian superconducting qubit dynamics from tomographic reconstruction

Non-Markovian noise presents a particularly relevant challenge in understanding and combating decoherence in quantum computers, yet is challenging to capture in terms of simple models. Here we show that a simple phenomenological dynamical model known as the post-Markovian master equation (PMME) accurately captures and predicts non-Markovian noise in a superconducting qubit system. The PMME is constructed using experimentally measured state dynamics of an IBM Quantum Experience cloud-based quantum processor, and the model thus constructed successfully predicts the non-Markovian dynamics observed in later experiments. The model also allows the extraction of information about cross-talk and measures of non-Markovianity. We demonstrate definitively that the PMME model predicts subsequent dynamics of the processor better than the standard Markovian master equation.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2018

High-efficiency measurement of an artificial atom embedded in a parametric amplifier

A crucial limit to measurement efficiencies of superconducting circuits comes from losses involved when coupling to an external quantum amplifier. Here, we realize a device circumventing this problem by directly embedding a two-level artificial atom, comprised of a transmon qubit, within a flux-pumped Josephson parametric amplifier. Surprisingly, this configuration is able to enhance dispersive measurement without exposing the qubit to appreciable excess backaction. This is accomplished by engineering the circuit to permit high-power operation that reduces information loss to unmonitored channels associated with the amplification and squeezing of quantum noise. By mitigating the effects of off-chip losses downstream, the on-chip gain of this device produces end-to-end measurement efficiencies of up to 80 percent. Our theoretical model accurately describes the observed interplay of gain and measurement backaction, and delineates the parameter space for future improvement. The device is compatible with standard fabrication and measurement techniques, and thus provides a route for definitive investigations of fundamental quantum effects and quantum control protocols.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2018

Time Reversal Symmetry Breaking in the B Phase of the Heavy Fermion Superconductor PrOs$_4$Sb$_{12}$

We present polar Kerr effect measurements of the filled skutterudite superconductor PrOs$_4$Sb$_{12}$. Simultaneous AC susceptibility measurements allow us to observe the superconducting transition under the influence of heating from the optical beam. A nonzero Kerr angle $θ_K$ develops below the superconducting transition, saturating at $\sim 300$ nrad at low temperatures. This result is repeated across several measurements of multiple samples. By extrapolating the measured $θ_K(T)$ to zero optical power, we are able to show that the Kerr angle onset temperature in one set of measurements is consistent with the transition to the B phase at $T_{C2}$. We discuss the possible explanations for this result and its impact on the understanding of multi-phase and inhomogeneous superconductivity in PrOs$_4$Sb$_{12}$.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2017

Anomalous Thermal Diffusivity in Underdoped YBa$_2$Cu$_3$O$_{6+x}$

We present local optical measurements of thermal diffusivity in the $ab$ plane of underdoped YBCO crystals. We find that the diffusivity anisotropy is comparable to reported values of the electrical resistivity anisotropy, suggesting that the anisotropies have the same origin. The anisotropy drops sharply below the charge order transition. We interpret our results through a strong electron-phonon scattering picture and find that both electronic and phononic contributions to the diffusivity saturate a proposed bound. Our results suggest that neither well-defined electron nor phonon quasiparticles are present in this material.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2013

Single Quasiparticle Trapping in Aluminum Nanobridge Josephson Junctions

We present microwave measurements of a high quality factor superconducting resonator incorporating two aluminum nanobridge Josephson junctions in a loop shunted by an on-chip capacitor. Trapped quasiparticles (QPs) shift the resonant frequency, allowing us to probe the trapped QP number and energy distribution and to quantify their lifetimes. We find that the trapped QP population obeys a Gibbs distribution above 75 mK, with non-Poissonian trapping statistics. Our results are in quantitative agreement with the Andreev bound state model of transport, and demonstrate a practical means to quantify on-chip QP populations and validate mitigation strategies in a cryogenic environment.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2013

In-Plane Magnetic Field Tolerance of a Dispersive Aluminum Nanobridge SQUID Magnetometer

We characterize the flux sensitivity of a dispersive 3D aluminum nanobridge SQUID magnetometer as a function of applied in-plane magnetic field. In zero field, we observe an effective flux noise of 17 n$Φ_0$/Hz$^{1/2}$ with 25 MHz of bandwidth. Flux noise increased by less than a factor of three with parallel magnetic fields up to 61 mT. Operation in higher fields may be possible by decreasing the dimensions of the shunt capacitor in the magnetometer circuit. These devices are thus well suited for observing high-speed dynamics in nanoscale magnets, even in the presence of moderate bias magnetic fields.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2013

A dispersive nanoSQUID magnetometer for ultra-low noise, high bandwidth flux detection

We describe a dispersive nanoSQUID magnetometer comprised of two variable thickness aluminum weak-link Josephson junctions shunted in parallel with an on-chip capacitor. This arrangement forms a nonlinear oscillator with a tunable 4-8 GHz resonant frequency with a quality factor Q = 30 when coupled directly to a 50 $Ω$ transmission line. In the presence of a near-resonant microwave carrier signal, a low frequency flux input generates sidebands that are readily detected using microwave reflectometry. If the carrier excitation is sufficiently strong then the magnetometer also exhibits parametric gain, resulting in a minimum effective flux noise of 30 n$Φ_0$/Hz$^{1/2}$ with 20 MHz of instantaneous bandwidth. If the magnetometer is followed with a near quantum-noise-limited Josephson parametric amplifier, we can increase the bandwidth to 60 MHz without compromising sensitivity. This combination of high sensitivity and wide bandwidth with no on-chip dissipation makes this device ideal for local sensing of spin dynamics, both classical and quantum.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2011

1/f noise of Josephson-junction-embedded microwave resonators at single photon energies and millikelvin temperatures

We present measurements of 1/f frequency noise in both linear and Josephson-junction-embedded superconducting aluminum resonators in the low power, low temperature regime - typical operating conditions for superconducting qubits. The addition of the Josephson junction does not result in additional frequency noise, thereby placing an upper limit for fractional critical current fluctuations of $10^{-8}$ (Hz$^{-1/2}$) at 1 Hz for sub-micron, shadow evaporated junctions. These values imply a minimum dephasing time for a superconducting qubit due to critical current noise of 40 -- 1400 $μ$s depending on qubit architecture. Occasionally, at temperatures above 50 mK, we observe the activation of individual fluctuators which increase the level of noise significantly and exhibit Lorentzian spectra.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2011

Nonlinear microwave response of aluminum weak-link Josephson oscillators

We present the driven response at T=30mK of 6 GHz superconducting resonators constructed from capacitively-shunted three dimensional (3D) aluminum nanobridge superconducting quantum interference devices (nanoSQUIDs). We observe flux modulation of the resonant frequency in quantitative agreement with numerical calculation and characteristic of near-ideal short weak link junctions. Under strong microwave excitation, we observe stable bifurcation in devices with coupled quality factor (Q) ranging from ~30-3500. Near this bias point, parametric amplification with > 20dB gain, 40 MHz bandwidth, and near quantum-limited noise performance is observed. Our results indicate that 3D nanobridge junctions are attractive circuit elements to realize quantum bits.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2010

Approaching ideal weak link behavior with three dimensional aluminum nanobridges

We present transport measurements of unshunted dc superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) consisting of 30 nm wide aluminum nanobridges of varying length L contacted with two and three dimensional banks. 3D nanobridge SQUIDs with L $\leq$ 150 nm (approximately 3-4 times the superconducting coherence length) exhibit $\approx 70%$ critical current modulation with applied magnetic field, approaching the theoretical limit for an ideal short metallic weak link. In contrast, 2D nanobridge SQUIDs exhibit significantly lower critical current modulation. This enhanced nonlinearity makes 3D nanobridge Josephson junctions well suited to optimize sensitivity in weak link SQUID magnetometers as well as realize ultra low-noise amplifiers and qubits.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2009

Edge-State Velocity and Coherence in a Quantum Hall Fabry-Perot Interferometer

We investigate nonlinear transport in electronic Fabry-Perot interferometers in the integer quantum Hall regime. For interferometers sufficiently large that Coulomb blockade effects are absent, a checkerboard-like pattern of conductance oscillations as a function of dc bias and perpendicular magnetic field is observed. Edge-state velocities extracted from the checkerboard data are compared to model calculations and found to be consistent with a crossover from skipping orbits at low fields to E x B drift at high fields. Suppression of visibility as a function of bias and magnetic field is accounted for by including energy- and field-dependent dephasing of edge electrons.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2008

Distinct Signatures For Coulomb Blockade and Aharonov-Bohm Interference in Electronic Fabry-Perot Interferometers

Two distinct types of magnetoresistance oscillations are observed in two electronic Fabry-Perot interferometers of different sizes in the integer quantum Hall regime. Measuring these oscillations as a function of magnetic field and gate voltages, we observe three signatures that distinguish the two types. The oscillations observed in a 2.0 square micron device are understood to arise from the Coulomb blockade mechanism, and those observed in an 18 square micron device from the Aharonov-Bohm mechanism. This work clarifies, provides ways to distinguish, and demonstrates control over, these distinct physical origins of resistance oscillations seen in electronic Fabry-Perot interferometers.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗

arXiv2007

Fractional quantum Hall effect in a quantum point contact at filling fraction 5/2

Recent theories suggest that the excitations of certain quantum Hall states may have exotic braiding statistics which could be used to build topological quantum gates. This has prompted an experimental push to study such states using confined geometries where the statistics can be tested. We study the transport properties of quantum point contacts (QPCs) fabricated on a GaAs/AlGaAs two dimensional electron gas that exhibits well-developed fractional quantum Hall effect, including at bulk filling fraction 5/2. We find that a plateau at effective QPC filling factor 5/2 is identifiable in point contacts with lithographic widths of 1.2 microns and 0.8 microns, but not 0.5 microns. We study the temperature and dc-current-bias dependence of the 5/2 plateau in the QPC, as well as neighboring fractional and integer plateaus in the QPC while keeping the bulk at filling factor 3. Transport near QPC filling factor 5/2 is consistent with a picture of chiral Luttinger liquid edge-states with inter-edge tunneling, suggesting that an incompressible state at 5/2 forms in this confined geometry.

cond-mat.mes-hall↗