Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - PHYS 881 G200

Special Topics I (3)

Methods of Experimental Physics

Class Number: 4060

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Dec 5, 2023: Mon, Wed, Fri, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 10, 2023: Tue, 10:30–11:20 a.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

Grading

  • Assignments 75%
  • Final 25%

NOTES:

  • half credit for late assignments received before solutions are posted
  • no credit for assignments handed in after solutions are posted
  • Students who cannot write their exam during the course's scheduled exam time must request accommodation from their instructor in writing, clearly stating the reason for this request, before the end of the first week of classes.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

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 READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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 website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.