NIST researchers have developed a new statistical tool called ThêoH to measure and analyze the stability of frequency sources, particularly important for quantum computing and other precision measurements. ThêoH combines two existing methods – Allan variance (AVAR) and a bias-removed version of Thêo1 (ThêoBR) – to provide a more accurate and comprehensive stability analysis.
The key advantages of ThêoH include:
1. Improved confidence in stability measurements
2. Unbiased estimates of Allan variance over a wider range of averaging times
3. Reduced computational complexity for large data sets
4. Ability to analyze limited-duration data runs effectively
The new method has been successfully applied to analyze the stability of a laser frequency locked to a stable optical cavity. ThêoH provides a more accurate picture of the laser’s frequency stability, particularly in identifying long-term trends and potential sources of noise.
The development of ThêoH represents an important advancement in the field of frequency stability analysis, with potential applications in quantum computing, atomic clocks, and other precision measurement technologies. The method is particularly useful for analyzing limited-duration data sets and provides a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying noise sources affecting frequency stability.
Keywords: Stability, Frequency, Metrology, Averaging, Statistic