Superconducting single photon detectors integrated with single flux quantum readout circuits in a cryocooler

Abstract

We report the operation of superconducting single photon detectors (SSPDs) with integrated readout electronics based on a single-flux-quantum (SFQ) circuit. The SSPDs were connected to a SFQ readout circuit without bias tee in a cryocooler system, and detection efficiencies (DEs) were measured to verify their correct operation. The DE curves matched well with those measured by conventional readout electronics, and the maximum bias current for normal operation was increased. In addition, we confirmed that the SFQ circuit correctly merged the input signals from two SSPDs. SSPDs with a SFQ readout circuit demonstrated a favorable timing jitter of 50 ps.