Effects of Phase Noise in Microwave Control Sequences on Spin Coherence

As quantum systems advance towards practical applications in quantum computing, communication, and sensing, it has become crucial to assess the effects of classical control noise on quantum protocols. Traditionally, high-performance benchtop pulse generators are used to implement quantum gates. However, real-world applications will demand consideration of device scalability, cost, and power consumption along with performance. Here, we investigate how the oscillator phase noise and pulse-envelope timing jitter affect the performance of quantum control protocols implemented with a nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in diamond. We combine an analytical model that incorporates jitter of the gate arrival time with a numerical model relating voltage controlled oscillator phase noise to quantum decoherence. The model enables us to pinpoint device specifications that limit control-induced errors below a desired value. We present experimental results on how the observed T₂^* of a single NV center varies as a function of phase noise levels. Finally, we discuss how these results can inform the design of application-specific integrated circuits for quantum control.