Integrated quantum key distribution sender unit for daily-life implementations

Mélen, Gwenaelle; Vogl, Tobias; Rau, Markus; Corrielli, Giacomo; Crespi, Andrea; Osellame, Roberto und Weinfurter, Harald (2016): Integrated quantum key distribution sender unit for daily-life implementations. Advances in Photonics of Quantum Computing, Memory, and Communication IX, San Francisco, California, United States, 13-18 February 2016. Proceedings of SPIE. Bd. 9762, 97620A Bellingham: SPIE.

Abstract

Unlike currently implemented encryption schemes, Quantum Key Distribution provides a secure way of generating and distributing a key among two parties. Although a multitude of research platforms has been developed, the integration of QKD units within classical communication systems remains a tremendous challenge. The recently achieved maturity of integrated photonic technologies could be exploited to create miniature QKD add-ons that could extend the primary function of various existing systems such as mobile devices or optical stations. In this work we report on an integrated optics module enabling secure short-distance communication for, e.g., quantum access schemes. Using BB84-like protocols, Alice's mobile low-cost device can exchange secure key and information everywhere within a trusted node network. The new optics platform (35 x 20 x 8 mm) compatible with current smartphone's technology generates NIR faint polarised laser pulses with 100 MHz repetition rate. Fully automated beam tracking and live basis-alignment on Bob's side ensure user-friendly operation with a quantum link efficiency as high as 50 % stable over a few seconds.

• Dokumententyp: Konferenzbeitrag (Bericht)
• Fakultät: Physik
• Themengebiete: 500 Naturwissenschaften und Mathematik > 530 Physik
• ISSN: 0277-786X
• Ort: Bellingham
• Sprache: Englisch