FPGA-based feedback control of quantum optics experiments with the open source software package PyRPL

Abstract: We present PyRPL, an open source software package that allows the implementation of automatic digital feedback controllers for quantum optics experiments on commercially available, affordable FPGA boards. Our software implements the digital generation of various types of error signals, from an analog input through the application of loop filters of high complexity and real-time gain adjustment for multiple analog output signals, including different algorithms for resonance search, lock acquisition sequences and in-loop gain optimization. Furthermore, all necessary diagnostic instruments such as an oscilloscope, a network analyzer and a spectrum analyzer are integrated into our software. Apart from providing a quickly scalable, automatic feedback controller, the lock performance that can be achieved by using PyRPL with imperfect equipment such as piezoelectric transducers and noisy amplifiers is better than the one achievable with standard analog controllers due to the higher complexity of implementable filters and possibilities of nonlinear operations in the FPGA. This drastically reduces the cost of added complexity when introducing additional feedback loops to an experiment. The open-source character also distinguishes PyRPL from commercial solutions, as it allows users to customize functionalities at various levels, ranging from the easy integration of PyRPL-based feedback controllers into existing setups to the modification of the FPGA functionality. A community of developers provides fast and efficient implementation and testing of software modifications.