The article discusses the development of a new quantum-based standard for measuring electric current, using single-electron transistors (SETs). The new definition of the ampere is based on the elementary charge of a single electron, which is a constant of nature. SETs can count individual electrons one at a time, but the currents involved are extremely small, requiring cooling to near absolute zero and amplification through multiple SETs in series.
The ultimate goal is to achieve a practical, working standard for electric current that can be used in real-world electronic equipment. This would involve combining the electric current from large numbers of SETs to reach about 1 microampere, within the range needed for practical applications. The development of such a quantum-based measurement suite would be a significant advancement in metrology, enabling more accurate and precise measurements of electric current, voltage, and resistance.
The article highlights the challenges in developing this new standard, including the need for extremely small devices, low temperatures, and amplification techniques. However, it also emphasizes the potential benefits of having a compact, quantum-based measurement suite that could be widely used in factories and laboratories.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/noac/technology/current-and-voltage/quantum-ampere-standard
Keywords: Quantum Dot, Single-Electron Transistor, Electric Current, Metrology Triangle, Quantum-Accurate
