Superconducting digital technology for ultrafast processing of microwave signals
Résumé
Superconducting Rapid Single Flux Quantum (RSFQ) circuits have the ability to perform digital operation with clock signals in the microwave frequency range. The clock signal can be either generated on-chip via Josephson oscillators, or injected externally through microwave lines. We have investigated several configurations to digitize and process on-chip microwave signals for space-based applications, based on the European FLUXONICS Foundry with a niobium-based technology that can opearate at clock frequencies in the 30-40 GHz range. This presentation will focus on the main features of the technology, the expected performances for specific applications and the current status of experimental results of several circuits measured at 4K. It will also feature prospects and expectations, based on circuits already designed and in preparation.