Progress on accurate measurement of the Planck constant:Watt balance and counting atoms

The Planck constant h is one of the most significant constants in quantum physics.Recently,the precision measurement of the value of h has been a hot issue due to its important role for the establishment of both a new SI and a revised fundamental physical constant system.Up to date,two approaches,the watt balance and counting atoms,have been employed to determine the Planck constant at a level of several parts in 108.In this paper,the principle and progress on precision measurement of the Planck constant using watt balance and counting atoms at national metrology institutes are reviewed.Further improvement in determining the Planck constant and possible developments of a revised physical constant system in future are discussed.