Noise-optimized ultrastable low-noise current amplifier

Abstract

We have developed a noise-optimized ultrastable low-noise current amplifier (ULCA) aimed at reducing the uncertainty at low currents. It involves a thin-film resistor network with 6.75 GΩ at the high-ohmic path which reduces the noise level to 1.6 fA/Hz. Noise investigations as well as short-term and long-term stability studies were carried out. The stability of the input current gain was measured using a cryogenic current comparator at ±6.1 nA. Methods for investigating the measurement accuracy at low input currents of about 100 pA at a level of below one part in 10⁷ are introduced and experimentally verified. The performance of the noise-optimized ULCA is compared with that of the standard variant introduced in 2014. It is shown that the reduced noise floor is achieved without impairing the stability of the transresistance.