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Quantum State Engineering of Light with Continuous-wave Optical Parametric Oscillators
Published on: May 30, 2014
Near quantum-limited, single-shot coherent arbitrary optical waveform measurements.
Nicolas K Fontaine1, Ryan P Scott, Jonathan P Heritage
1Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave., Davis, California 95616, USA. nkfontaine@ucdavis.edu
Optics Express
|August 6, 2009
Summary
This study introduces a new method for optical waveform characterization using four-quadrature spectral interferometry and balanced coherent detection. This technique allows for single-shot, full-field analysis of complex optical waveforms with high sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Quantum Optics
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Characterizing complex optical waveforms is crucial for advanced optical systems.
- Existing methods may lack the sensitivity or single-shot capability required for certain applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a single-shot, full-field technique for characterizing complex optical waveforms.
- To achieve near quantum-limited sensitivity in optical waveform measurement.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing four-quadrature spectral interferometry with balanced coherent detection.
- Employing a 90-degree optical hybrid to phase-shift the optical waveform.
- Measuring four spectra using a 2D detector array and balanced detection.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated single-shot characterization of arbitrary optical waveforms.
- Achieved 200-ps record lengths and 500 GHz optical bandwidths.
- Obtained near quantum-limited sensitivity with as few as 1200 detected photons.
Conclusions:
- Four-quadrature spectral interferometry with balanced coherent detection offers a powerful tool for optical waveform analysis.
- The method provides high sensitivity and single-shot capability, suitable for diverse optical applications.
- This technique advances the field of optical metrology and characterization.
