Operating a non-Hermitian atomic magnetometer with programmable digital electronics

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Electronics
• Quantum Sensing

Background:

• Non-Hermitian systems with exceptional points (EPs) offer enhanced sensitivity but are difficult to control due to environmental disturbances.
• Existing physical systems struggle with accurate generation and manipulation of EPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel hybrid system for creating and controlling EPs using digital electronics and physical sensors.
• To enhance the sensitivity of physical sensors through EP-enhanced responses.

Main Methods:

• Developed a hybrid system integrating programmable digital electronics with physical sensors.
• Utilized digital electronics to create, manipulate, and apply EPs.
• Coupled the hybrid system with an atomic magnetometer to measure weak magnetic fields.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 4.27-fold increase in sensitivity for weak magnetic field measurements.
• Demonstrated the ability to easily and flexibly create and manipulate EPs.
• Showcased the modular design's capability to couple with various physical sensors.

Conclusions:

• The proposed hybrid non-Hermitian system offers a practical and programmable platform for enhanced sensing.
• This approach bridges atomic physics, electronics, and non-Hermitian devices, opening new research avenues.
• The system's programmability and scalability promise increased universality and intelligence in non-Hermitian applications.