Quantum Noise in Linear Amplifiers

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Abstract
The classical definition of noise figure, based on signal-to-noise ratio, is adapted to the case when quantum noise is predominant. The noise figure is normalized to "uncertainty noise." General quantum mechanical equations for linear amplifiers are set up using the condition of linearity and the requirement that the commutator brackets of the pertinent operators are conserved in the amplification. These equations include as special cases the maser, the parametric amplifier, and the parametric up-converter. Using these equations the noise figure of a general amplifier is derived. The minimum value of this noise figure is equal to 2. The significance of the result with regard to a simultaneous phase and amplitude measurement is explored.

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