NRZ Amplifier Circuit for RQL-to-Classical Signal Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing superconducting digital technologies face challenges in efficiently converting short, very low amplitude voltage pulses used in RQL computing systems to longer duration, higher amplitude voltage signals suitable for classical computing systems, particularly across cold-space barriers.
Innovation Solution
An NRZ amplifier system utilizing a first and second input path with phase-shifted delay elements, coupled to superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs), converts RQL input pulses to output voltage signals by maintaining control flux in the first amplifier device and inducing a flux state in the second amplifier device, enabling differential measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If short, very low amplitude voltage pulses are used in RQL computing systems, then power dissipation is reduced and operating speed is increased, but the signals cannot be directly interface with classical room temperature computer systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an amplifier system as an intermediary device between RQL cold-space computer systems and classical room temperature computer systems. The amplifier receives low amplitude voltage pulses from the RQL system, converts them to control flux in a first amplifier device, and generates higher amplitude voltage signals in a second amplifier device that can interface with classical systems, thus enabling communication across the interface barrier while preserving the energy efficiency of RQL operations
Solution Approach 2:
The amplifier system changes the amplitude parameter of voltage signals from very low amplitude RQL pulses to higher amplitude classical computer signals. The system transforms the signal characteristics by converting voltage pulses to flux control signals and then back to voltage signals with different amplitude parameters, making the signals compatible between different computing systems while maintaining the operational advantages of each system
2Speed
If very low amplitude voltage pulses are used for high speed operation, then operating speed is improved, but signal duration becomes too short for reliable transmission across cold-space barriers
Solution Approach 1:
The amplifier system performs preliminary conversion of the short duration voltage pulses into flux control signals before transmission. By converting the voltage pulses to flux signals in advance and maintaining the flux state through the amplifier devices, the system extends the effective duration of the signal while preserving the high speed operation characteristics of the original RQL pulses
Solution Approach 2:
The flux control signal acts as an intermediary that bridges the duration mismatch between short RQL pulses and the requirements for reliable transmission. The flux state maintained in the amplifier devices extends the signal duration appropriately for cross-barrier transmission while the system maintains compatibility with high speed RQL operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively translates RQL input pulses to longer duration, higher amplitude output signals, facilitating seamless communication between RQL and classical computing systems despite temperature differences.
Implementation Method 1
a first superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) comprising the control node and being configured to provide a control flux in response to the input pulse and in response to the delayed version of the input pulse
Implementation Method 2
The second SQUID can be inductively coupled to the first SQUID to be set to a flux state in response to the control flux
Data Source
AI summary
One example includes an amplifier system. The system includes an input configured to receive an input pulse, a first input path coupled to the input and configured to provide the input pulse to a control node, and a second input path coupled to the input and comprising at least one delay element to provide a delayed version of the input pulse to the control node. The system also includes a first amplifier device comprising the control node and being configured to provide a control flux in response to the input pulse and in response to the delayed version of the input pulse. The system further includes a second amplifier device coupled to the first amplifier device, the second amplifier device being set to a flux state in response to the control flux to provide an output voltage.