Advances in Quantum Industry

Cryo-electronic devices, such as superconducting and spin qubits, operate at ultralow temperatures (below 2 K) to enable novel functionalities and serve as the fundamental building blocks of quantum computers. Developing these devices requires rapid characterization at their operational temperatures to provide critical feedback for fabrication. To address this need, we designed a “cryo-prober” that significantly accelerates low-temperature characterization measurements.

Probe stations are widely used to characterize electronic devices at room temperature. By automating the movement of a wafer relative to probe needles to contact devices, these systems enable the rapid collection of statistical data on device performance. While cryogenic probe stations for low-temperature testing have existed for many years, achieving the sub-2 K temperatures required for quantum devices remains a significant challenge. Currently, only one commercially available wafer prober operates below 2 K, but its high cost and limited flexibility render it unsuitable for academic research and prototyping.

To bridge this gap, we developed a compact and versatile cryo-prober capable of testing quantum devices at temperatures below 1 K [de Kruijf et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 94, 054707 (2023)]. Its compact design allows seamless integration into standard research cryostats, significantly reducing costs while maintaining versatility for diverse applications. In this talk, I will present the design and capabilities of this innovative system and explore its potential impact on advancing quantum device development.