Towards Integrated Components for Low-Noise Amplification and Isolation in a KITWPA Architecture

Traveling-wave parametric amplifiers (TWPAs) have achieved near–quantum-limited performance since their initial demonstrations [1], with continued progress in both Josephson-junction and kinetic-inductance implementations. To further improve noise performance and reduce device footprint, the integration of peripheral circuits has become a key focus [2], [3]. Moreover, by leveraging the intrinsic mixing properties of the TWPA in combination with these circuits, isolating behavior can be realized—an essential feature in superconducting qubit experiments. In this work, we present a three-wave–mixing TWPA based on the kinetic inductance of a thin NbTiN film on sapphire, realized in an inverted microstrip geometry with integrated DC and pump biasing networks. We describe the design and cryogenic characterization of the device using a high-frequency probe station and demonstrate operation at millikelvin temperatures. The integrated design enables detailed studies of how peripheral circuits can be combined with TWPAs to enhance performance in superconducting qubit measurement architectures.

[1] A near–quantum-limited Josephson traveling-wave parametric amplifier, DOI: 10.1126/science.aaa8525

[2] Peripheral circuits for ideal performance of a traveling-wave parametric amplifier, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.21.064062

[3] Compact Superconducting Kinetic Inductance Traveling Wave Parametric Amplifiers With On-Chip rf Components, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/TASC.2025.3553466