Low-Noise Analog Switch Matrix for Quantum Ion-Trap Systems
- Typ der Arbeit: Bachelorarbeit
- Status der Arbeit: offen
- Betreuer: Philipp Lütke
Before continuing please visit: Master Thesis
Low-Noise Analog Switch Matrix for Quantum Ion-Trap Systems
TL;DR
Design and evaluate a low-noise, microcontroller-controlled switch matrix for routing sensitive analog signals in an ion-trap quantum computing system.
Motivation
Quantum computers based on trapped ions require highly stable electric fields generated by precisely controlled analog voltages. As the number of electrodes increases, flexible signal routing becomes increasingly important while maintaining signal integrity.
This thesis investigates the design and implementation of a low-noise analog switch matrix for programmable signal routing in an ion-trap control system.
Research Question
How can a microcontroller-controlled analog switch matrix be designed to provide flexible signal routing while minimizing noise, crosstalk, and electromagnetic interference?
Scope
The thesis combines analog electronics, PCB design, embedded systems, and experimental characterization.
The work will include:
- Design of a tree-based analog MUX switch matrix
- Integration of an ESP32 microcontroller for system control
- Implementation of optocoupler-based galvanic isolation
- PCB schematic design and low-noise layout
- PCB manufacturing, assembly, and hardware bring-up
- Firmware development for switch control
- Measurement of noise, crosstalk, and switching performance
- Evaluation of signal integrity and EMI robustness
The project should fulfil agreed milestones covering hardware design, board bring-up, firmware implementation, and performance evaluation.
Expected Outcome
At the end of the thesis, a functional switch matrix should enable reliable software-controlled routing of sensitive analog signals within the ion-trap system.
The work should provide an experimental evaluation of noise performance, crosstalk, switching behaviour, and signal integrity, as well as identify the benefits and limitations of the proposed architecture.
Required Skills
Required
- Basic understanding of analog and digital electronics
- Experience with C/C++ or embedded programming
- Basic understanding of microcontrollers and digital interfaces
- Interest in PCB design and hardware development
- Ability to work independently and document results clearly
Desirable
- Experience with ESP32 microcontrollers
- Experience with KiCad, Altium Designer, or similar tools
- Experience with PCB assembly and hardware debugging
- Familiarity with analog switching circuits
- Experience with oscilloscopes and laboratory measurements
- Experience with Git and LaTeX
Prior experience with all desirable skills is not required and can be acquired during the project.
Deliverables
- Written thesis
- Custom analog switch matrix PCB
- Reproducible hardware design and firmware
- Experimental performance evaluation
- Final presentation
Application
Please include:
- Curriculum vitae
- Current transcript of records
- Short description of your motivation and relevant experience
Please keep your application concise. A CV, transcript of records, and a short description of your motivation and relevant experience are sufficient.
