Fast and User-friendly Quantum Key Distribution

Abstract

Some guidelines for the comparison of different quantum key distribution experiments are proposed. An improved 'plug & play' interferometric system allowing fast key exchange is then introduced. Self-alignment and compensation of birefringence remain. Original electronics implementing the BB84 protocol and allowing user-friendly operation is presented. Key creation with 0.1 photon per pulse at a rate of 486 Hz with a 5.4% QBER - corresponding to a net rate of 210Hz - over a 23 Km installed cable was performed.Comment: 21 pages, 6 figures, added referenc