Automated Leakage Current Measurement Capability for Programmable Josephson Voltage Standards

Abstract

We have developed a new measurement module that can be installed in existing National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Programmable Josephson Voltage Standard (PJVS) systems to provide automated leakage-current measurement capability. The system utilizes several relays to switch between normal PJVS operating modes and leakage-current measurement modes without any manual operator actions. The simplicity and convenience of this automated method enables the verification of system leakage current characteristics on a frequent schedule. Full automation of these tasks provides significant advantages over traditional measurement methods performed by an operator, including reduced noise and drift, and reduced sensitivity to other activities in the nearby environment.