Quantum sensing takes advantage of well controlled quantum systems for
performing measurements with high sensitivity and precision. We have
implemented a concept for quantum sensing with arbitrary frequency resolution,
independent of the qubit probe and limited only by the stability of an external
synchronization clock. Our concept makes use of quantum lock-in detection to
continuously probe a signal of interest. Using the electronic spin of a single
nitrogen vacancy center in diamond, we demonstrate detection of oscillating
magnetic fields with a frequency resolution of 70 uHz over a MHz bandwidth. The
continuous sampling further guarantees an excellent sensitivity, reaching a
signal-to-noise ratio in excess of 10,000:1 for a 170 nT test signal measured
during a one-hour interval. Our technique has applications in magnetic
resonance spectroscopy, quantum simulation, and sensitive signal detection.Comment: Manuscript resubmitted to Science. Includes Supplementary Material
