Observation of two-photon interference effect with a single non-photon-number resolving detector

Area of Science:

• Quantum Optics
• Quantum Information Science

Background:

• Multiphoton interference is crucial for quantum information processing.
• Traditional Hong-Ou-Mandel experiments require sophisticated photon-number resolving detectors.
• Single-photon detectors have limitations like dead time, posing challenges for interference measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the Hong-Ou-Mandel interference effect using a single, non-photon-number resolving detector.
• To show that temporal separation of photons can overcome detector dead-time limitations.
• To enable simpler experimental setups for observing quantum interference.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing temporally well-separated, pairwise weak coherent pulses.
• Employing a single-photon avalanche detector.
• Performing time-delayed coincidence measurements of successive electrical signals.

Main Results:

• Successfully observed the Hong-Ou-Mandel interference effect with a single detector.
• Achieved high-visibility interference fringes.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of the method within the limitations of weak coherent photon sources.

Conclusions:

• The Hong-Ou-Mandel interference can be measured using a single detector and time-delayed coincidence measurements.
• This method simplifies quantum interference experiments and reduces hardware requirements.
• It opens possibilities for more accessible quantum optical experiments.