Noise Performance Characterization of Parametric Amplifiers

Parametric amplifiers have become critical in superconducting quantum computing as they can produce unparalleled noise performance. This is necessary for performing fast, high fidelity qubit state assessment, an essential ingredient for quantum error correction and feedback. While many more groups have become involved in the development of these devices in recent years, characterization techniques have always been inconsistent, both in how these measurements are performed, but also in how they are interpreted and reported. Noise characterization of these devices can be deceptively simple and subject to bias. In this talk, I will discuss some of these difficulties in frank detail and discuss specific details that are peculiar to superconducting parametric amplifiers.