Frequency standards : basics and applications

Of all measurement quantities, the frequency represents the one that can be determined with the highest degree of accuracy. This also allows precise measurements of other physical and technical quantities, whenever they could be put down to a frequency measurement. This volume covers the important methods and techniques developed for frequency measurements in physics, electronics, quantum electronics, statistics, and communication theory. After a review of the basics principles of various types of frequency standards, the realisation of commonly used components is monitored. The book continues with the description and characterisation of the most important frequency standards from atomic clocks to frequency stabilised lasers. Finally topical applications in engineering, telecommunication, and metrology are discussed.

Preface. Basics of Frequency Standards. Characterization of Amplitude Stability and Frequency Stability. Resonators. Atomic Frequency References. Frequency Stabilization of Oscillators. Maser. Atomic Clocks. Laser Frequency Standards. Ion-Trap Frequency Standards. Pulsars. Time Dissemination. Technical Applications. Physical and Technical Limits of Frequency Standards.

Preface. Basics of Frequency Standards. Characterization of Amplitude Stability and Frequency Stability. Resonators.Atomic Frequency References. Frequency Stabilization of Oscillators. Maser.Atomic Clocks. Laser Frequency Standards. Ion-Trap Frequency Standards. Pulsars.Time Dissemination. Technical Applications. Physical and Technical Limits of Frequency Standards.