We propose a fast scheme to generate Schrödinger cat states in a superconducting resonator using a continuously driven qubit without resorting to the dispersive regime, two-photon drives, or engineered two-photon dissipation. We provide analysis for when the qubit is on and off resonance from the drive. We extend our analysis to account for a third level in a weakly anharmonic qutrit. We also discuss the case of a strongly anharmonic qutrit. Throughout the paper, we corroborate our analytical results with numerical simulations in the presence of energy relaxation and dephasing of the qubit and resonator using realistic experimental parameters.

• Received 6 October 2023
• Revised 13 January 2024
• Accepted 22 January 2024

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.109.023703