Novel Method for Mach-Zehnder Interferometer Phase Stabilization

The Mach-Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) is a device used across many areas of research including quantum computing, optical communication, sensing, and imaging. The proper function of an MZI depends upon the stabilization of the relative phase between its arms as thermal gradients and vibrations can cause this phase to drift. This thesis proposes a novel method for MZI phase stabilization. The stabilization method was modelled mathematically and simulated, and a low cost and simple prototype control circuit was constructed which successfully proved the feasibility of this stabilization method. Finally, the initial mathematical model was refined according to experimental observations. This novel stabilization method could be impactful to any field or application which depends upon the use of MZIs.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Hardy, Max

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Englund, Dirk

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
• Copyright retained by author(s)

Licence dc:rights.uri

• https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC-EDU/1.0/

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/151611

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/151611