Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2020 - PHYS 881 G200

Special Topics I (3)

Methods of Experimental Physics

Class Number: 4140

Delivery Method: Remote

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 8, 2020: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

COURSE DETAILS:

Sources of noise

Random noise: Nyquist noise, shot noise, generation-recombination noise, 1/f noise
Interference: field-coupled noise, conducted noise, non-electrical noise

Mathematical description of noise

Fourier transforms and correlation functions
Wiener-Khintchine theorem and spectral density
Central limit theorem and Gaussian processes
Carson’s theorem, Schottky’s theorem, fluctuation-dissipation theorem

Noise in amplifiers

Noise factor and noise temperature
Noise in devices
Noise equivalent circuits
Practical characterization of amplifier noise (use of spectrum analyzers)
Noise matching and transformers
Detecting signals in the presence of noise
Optimum linear systems and matched filters
Phase-sensitive detection (lock-in amplifiers)
Signal averaging techniques
Low noise receivers, mixing and frequency conversion

Transducers and electrical measurements

Common types of transducer
Back-action noise
2 and 4 terminal resistance measurements
Capacitance and inductance measurements and impedance bridges
Resonator perturbation techniques and high frequency measurements
Other transducer types to be chosen depending on the interests of the class

Practical design of low noise measurement systems

Interference considerations: pickup, ground loops, common signal paths
Faraday cages and grounding
RF filtering
Wiring design and layout: focus on reliability and minimization of noise/interference

A subset of the following topics will be chosen according to class interests

Cryogenic techniques: thermal design, thermometry, wiring, cryogenic platforms
SQUID amplifiers (including a practical demonstration)
Vacuum techniques: molecular flow, pumping speed, pumps, out-gassing & leaks
Materials and methods for construction of scientific apparatus


Course delivery:
Lectures: synchronous and interactive. Most lectures will be recorded.
Final exam: take-home, with on-line submission. Date TBD.  (Final Exam period is Dec 9-20)

Grading

  • Assignments (probably 5) 75%
  • Take-home final 25%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Texts:
There is no required textbook for this course. Instructor’s typeset notes and a list of recommended references will be provided during the course.


Required computer resources:
• reliable high-speed internet access
• computer or tablet with webcam and microphone

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2020

Teaching at SFU in fall 2020 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).