Improved performance of TES bolometers using digital feedback

Tijmen de Haan; Graeme Smecher; Matt Dobbs

doi:10.1117/12.925658

27 September 2012 Improved performance of TES bolometers using digital feedback

Tijmen de Haan, Graeme Smecher, Matt Dobbs

Proceedings Volume 8452, Millimeter, Submillimeter, and Far-Infrared Detectors and Instrumentation for Astronomy VI; 84520E (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.925658
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2012, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Abstract

Voltage biased, frequency multiplexed TES bolometers have become a widespread tool in mm-wave astrophysics. However, parasitic impedance and dynamic range issues can limit stability, performance, and multiplexing factors. Here, we present novel methods of overcoming these challenges, achieved through digital feedback, implemented on a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). In the first method, known as Digital Active Nulling (DAN), the current sensor (e.g. SQUID) is nulled in a separate digital feedback loop for each bolometer frequency. This nulling removes the dynamic range limitation on the current sensor, increases its linearity, and reduces its effective input impedance. Additionally, DAN removes constraints on wiring lengths and maximum multiplexing frequency. DAN has been fully implemented and tested. Integration for current experiments, including the South Pole Telescope, will be discussed. We also present a digital mechanism for strongly increasing stability in the presence of large series impedances, known as Digitally Enhanced Voltage Bias (DEVB).

Citation Download Citation

Tijmen de Haan, Graeme Smecher, and Matt Dobbs "Improved performance of TES bolometers using digital feedback", Proc. SPIE 8452, Millimeter, Submillimeter, and Far-Infrared Detectors and Instrumentation for Astronomy VI, 84520E (27 September 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.925658

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