Parametric Amplifiers for Microwave Kinectic Inductance Detector (MKID) Readout

Build a microwave amplifier with near quantum-limited sensitivity, octave or greater bandwidth, gain > 20 dB for input signals in the frequency range 1 – 10 GHz, and power dissipation negligible compared to typical cooling powers at its operating temperature. To obtain broad bandwidth, we will make traveling wave amplifiers using a non-linear material. To avoid shock formation, we will make periodic structures with stop bands to block shock-forming harmonics.

Find numerical solutions to the non-linear partial differential equations describing our amplifier transmission lines. Optimize periodic choke structure to block shock formation while maximizing parametric gain. Measure the microwave properties of our transmission lines at cryogenic temperatures.