Precision Differential Sampling Measurements of Low-Frequency Synthesized Sine Waves With an AC Programmable Josephson Voltage Standard

Abstract

We have developed a precision technique to measure sine-wave sources with the use of a quantum-accurate AC programmable Josephson voltage standard. This paper describes a differential method that uses an integrating sampling voltmeter to precisely determine the amplitude and phase of high-purity and low-frequency (a few hundred hertz or less) sine-wave voltages. We have performed a variety of measurements to evaluate this differential technique. After averaging, the uncertainty obtained in the determination of the amplitude of a 1.2 V sine wave at 50 Hz is 0.3 muV/V (type A). Finally, we propose a dual-waveform approach for measuring two precision sine waves with the use of a single Josephson system. Currently, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is developing a new calibration system for electrical power measurements based on this technique.