Researchers at NIST have developed a new type of sensor that uses cesium atoms to receive common communications signals. The atom-based receiver has the potential to be smaller and work better in noisy environments than conventional radio receivers.
The NIST team demonstrated that atoms can receive digital bits in the most common communications format, called phase shifting or phase modulation. This method works across a wide range of frequencies and could be used in future wireless communications systems.
The atom-based receiver achieved data rates close to those of older 3G cell phones and had an error vector magnitude (EVM) below 10%, which is comparable to systems deployed in the field. The researchers plan to improve the new receiver by reducing laser noise and other unwanted effects.
Key technical points:
– Uses cesium atoms in a vapor cell
– Receives phase-modulated signals
– Achieves data rates close to 3G cell phones
– EVM below 10%, comparable to deployed systems
– Potential for smaller, more robust receivers
– May be less susceptible to interference and noise
Keywords: Rydberg, Phase modulation, Atom-based receiver, Quantum sensor, Electric fields
