Simultaneous determination of AC and DC magnetic field by a whispering gallery mode optical resonator

Abstract

Alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) magnetic fields are monitored by an optical whispering gallery mode (WGM) microcapillary resonator filled with magnetostrictive material. The DC magnetic field is demodulated with the signal-to-noise ratio of an AC-modulated magnetic field at a particular frequency and a sensitivity of 2.1 dB/mT is obtained across a detection range of 0.9 mT. An AC field sensitivity of 2.08 μT/ H z at 346 kHz is obtained with the same resonator. Introducing a biased DC field of 90Gs provides a four-fold improvement in AC field sensitivity. The AC and DC fields may be used to improve the corresponding DC and AC sensing. Therefore, this scheme may play a role monitoring magnetic fields in defence, biomedical analysis, and consumer electronics.