18 research outputs found
Quantum key distribution and 1 Gbit/s data encryption over a single fibre
We perform quantum key distribution (QKD) in the presence of 4 classical
channels in a C-band dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM)
configuration using a commercial QKD system. The classical channels are used
for key distillation and 1 Gbps encrypted communication, rendering the entire
system independent from any other communication channel than a single dedicated
fibre. We successfully distil secret keys over fibre spans of up to 50 km. The
separation between quantum channel and nearest classical channel is only 200
GHz, while the classical channels are all separated by 100 GHz. In addition to
that we discuss possible improvements and alternative configurations, for
instance whether it is advantageous to choose the quantum channel at 1310 nm or
to opt for a pure C-band configuration.Comment: 9 pages, 7 figure
Field test of quantum key distribution in the Tokyo QKD Network
A novel secure communication network with quantum key distribution in a
metropolitan area is reported. Different QKD schemes are integrated to
demonstrate secure TV conferencing over a distance of 45km, stable long-term
operation, and application to secure mobile phones.Comment: 21 pages, 19 figure
Photonic quantum information processing: a review
Photonic quantum technologies represent a promising platform for several
applications, ranging from long-distance communications to the simulation of
complex phenomena. Indeed, the advantages offered by single photons do make
them the candidate of choice for carrying quantum information in a broad
variety of areas with a versatile approach. Furthermore, recent technological
advances are now enabling first concrete applications of photonic quantum
information processing. The goal of this manuscript is to provide the reader
with a comprehensive review of the state of the art in this active field, with
a due balance between theoretical, experimental and technological results. When
more convenient, we will present significant achievements in tables or in
schematic figures, in order to convey a global perspective of the several
horizons that fall under the name of photonic quantum information.Comment: 36 pages, 6 figures, 634 references. Updated version with minor
changes and extended bibliograph
Memory-assisted measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution
A protocol with the potential of beating the existing distance records for conventional quantum key distribution (QKD) systems is proposed. It borrows ideas from quantum repeaters by using memories in the middle of the link, and that of measurement-device-independent QKD, which only requires optical source equipment at the users end. For certain memories with short access times, our scheme allows a higher repetition rate than that of quantum repeaters with single-mode memories, thereby requiring lower coherence times. By accounting for various sources of nonideality, such as memory decoherence, dark counts, misalignment errors, and background noise, as well as timing issues with memories, we develop a mathematical framework within which we can compare QKD systems with and without memories. In particular, we show that with the state-of-the-art technology for quantum memories, it is potentially possible to devise memory-assisted QKD systems that, at certain distances of practical interest, outperform current QKD implementations