Quantum resistance calibration suite

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) has a requirement for the supply of two resistance calibration suites able to allow measurement of resistance traceably to fundamental constants with an uncertainty of 3 parts per billion [ppb], or better. This is in support of the realization of the kilogram, electrical standards and research.

The combined and integrated quantum resistance suite is a critical tool for electrical and mass metrology allowing measurement and calibration of resistance down to a level of 3 ppb or better, across a range of resistance values. It is an integrated system comprised of a Quantum Hall Resistance (QHR) standard and a cryogenic current comparator (CCC), with associated electronics, and cryogenic systems that allow system operation without need for liquid helium supply. Each system must include a QHR standard system and a CCC supplied as an integrated unit with supporting electronics and control software.

The first system (A) will be a simplified, compact system of small footprint that will be integrated to the existing NRC Kibble balance equipment and will enable mass traceability to the definition of the kilogram. This system shall be provided with a QHR sample array with multiple resistance values that can be calculated directly from fundamental constants. The second system (B) shall be provided for low temperature research and calibration, able to accommodate a broad set of QHR sample types and therefore able to reach 1.3 K or lower with high stability and with a minimum magnetic field strength of 9 Tesla. All systems shall be provided with all the necessary appurtenances needed to operate the QHR and the CCC equipment.