Quantum Sensor Readout Snapshot

Richard P. Feynman Center for Innovation

Technology Snapshot
Technology Licensing Opportunity

Maximum Length Sequence
Phase Encoding for Quantum
Sensor Readout
A correlation-based method for
interference-resistant detection in
quantum sensing systems
Value Proposition
This technology improves the reliability of quantum
sensors in environments where interference normally
overwhelms the measured signal. By introducing a
controlled pattern into the sensor response and
analyzing it through correlation methods, the
approach separates real signals from background
noise. This enables clearer, more dependable
measurements in conditions where conventional
quantum readout techniques commonly struggle.

Technology Readiness Level 3
IP Information
This technology is disclosed under “Maximum length
sequences for quantum system readout.”

Contact: [email protected]

Fig 1. The phase-encoded readout method highlights the true signal even when strong interference is present. The encoded measurement produces a clear correlation peak, while the interfering signal does not. This demonstrates that the method can reliably detect the target signal in noisy environments.

Los Alamos researchers developed a pseudorandom
phase-encoding method that allows a quantum
sensor to distinguish true target signals from
substantial background noise. By applying a
maximum length sequence, also called an msequence, the sensor’s phase is flipped by 180 degrees according to a designed pattern. The
resulting measurement is analyzed using correlation
against the known sequence, enabling accurate
extraction of the intended signal even when
conventional methods fail to differentiate between
interference and true sensor output.

Please include LANL Reference ID S-167695 when
reaching out.

Advantages

Overview

• Distinguishes true sensor signals from interfering
or spurious noise

Quantum sensors can detect extremely small
electromagnetic and magnetic signatures, which
makes them powerful tools for geophysical analysis,
materials detection, environmental monitoring, and
scientific research. Their sensitivity also makes them
vulnerable to interference from ambient RF sources,
electrical noise, and outdoor or industrial
environments. Traditional readout methods attempt to
preserve the phase of the sensor or allow it to evolve
uniformly, but these approaches can produce
ambiguous results or false positives when exposed to