Microwave magnetic field strength imaging based on Rabi resonance with alkali-atom vapor cell

The present Rabi resonance microwave sensing technique cannot fully describe the microwave magnetic field strength distribution due to the signal detection method. Here, we propose an alternative Rabi resonance-based microwave imaging technique using a digital micromirror device and an alkali atomic cell. The experimental results well describe the distribution of the microwave field quantitatively and agree with the absorption imaging results. This technique can also be used as a method to analyze and measure the relaxation rate in an atomic vapor cell and offers a SI-traceable imaging approach for the microwave magnetic field. Its simple architecture holds great potential for the development of compact/miniature microwave field sensors. Published under an exclusive license by AIP Publishing.

Automated summary

In this study, an alternative Rabi resonance-based microwave imaging technique using a digital micromirror device and an alkali atomic cell is proposed. The experimental results quantitatively describe the distribution of the microwave field and agree with the absorption imaging results. This technique can also analyze and measure the relaxation rate in an atomic vapor cell and provides a SI-traceable imaging approach for the microwave magnetic field. Its simple architecture holds great potential for the development of compact/miniature microwave field sensors.