Nanosecond delay with subpicosecond uncertainty

Abstract

We have combined a commercially available, variable-length coaxial delay line (trombone line) with a high-resolution linear translation system. The result is better resolution and lower uncertainty in the achievable delays than previously available. The range of delay is 0 ps to approximately 1250 ps, the bidirectional resolution is 2.0 ps, the unidirectional resolution is 0.2 ps, and the uncertainty (95% confidence interval) in the measured delay is +/-0.09 ps. Drift, temperature dependence, repeatability, linearity, and hysteresis were also examined.