Systematic Error Analysis of Stepwise Approximated AC Waveforms Generated by Programmable Josephson Voltage Standards

Published

April 1, 2009

Author(s)

Charles J. Burroughs, Alain Rufenacht, Samuel P. Benz, Paul D. Dresselhaus

Abstract

We have measured stepwise-approximated sine waves generated by a Programmable Josephson Voltage Standard (PJVS) with several different output configurations. These data are analyzed to characterize the dominant error mechanisms for rms applications, such as ac-dc difference measurements of thermal voltage converters (TVC). We present detailed explanations of the fundamental causes and consequences of systematic errors that arise from transitions, and consider overall uncertainties for PJVS ac metrology using this synthesis method. We show that these timing-related errors are sufficient to make this waveform synthesis approach impractical for rms audio-frequency applications. The implications of providing the load current required by low input impedance devices such as TVC's are also discussed.

Citation

IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement

Volume

58

Issue

4

Pub Type

Journals

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Keywords

Digital-analog conversion, Josephson arrays, voltage standards, superconductor-normal-superconductor devices

Citation

Burroughs, C. , Rufenacht, A. , Benz, S. and Dresselhaus, P. (2009), Systematic Error Analysis of Stepwise Approximated AC Waveforms Generated by Programmable Josephson Voltage Standards, IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=33063 (Accessed October 10, 2025)