An unshunted comparator as a device for quantum measurements

Abstract

The unshunted single-flux-quantum SFQ comparator is described for the first time. Its dynamic behavior is surprisingly similar to the familiar resistively-shunted SFQ comparator. For certain parameter ranges both junctions of the comparator may pulse at the same time to create a reflected anti-pulse. This phenomenon is utilized in a new SFQ comparator design with better coherence properties for qubit readout. Considerations of quantum noise for the unshunted SFQ comparator are discussed.