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Entangled photon-pair sources based on three-wave mixing in bulk crystals
Ali Anwar1, Chithrabhanu Perumangatt1, Fabian Steinlechner2
1Centre for Quantum Technologies, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 2, S117543 Singapore, Singapore.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|July 10, 2021
Summary
Entangled photon pairs, generated via spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC), are vital for quantum networks. This review covers state-of-the-art bulk-optics SPDC sources for practical quantum communication deployment.
Area of Science:
- Quantum optics
- Quantum information science
- Photonics
Background:
- Entangled photon pairs are fundamental to quantum communication technologies like quantum key distribution and teleportation.
- Spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) in bulk nonlinear crystals is the primary method for generating these photon pairs.
- The expansion of quantum networks necessitates the development of robust, high-performance entangled photon-pair sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current advancements in bulk-optics-based SPDC sources for generating entangled photon pairs.
- To discuss key considerations for deploying these sources in real-world quantum communication networks.
- To highlight the state-of-the-art in continuous wave pumped SPDC technology.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on bulk-optics spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) sources.
- Analysis of continuous wave (CW) pumped SPDC systems.
- Discussion of practical engineering and deployment challenges for quantum sources.
Main Results:
- Identification of state-of-the-art bulk-optics SPDC sources.
- Summary of performance metrics and characteristics of current entangled photon-pair generators.
- Outline of critical factors for building deployable quantum communication hardware.
Conclusions:
- Bulk-optics SPDC remains a leading technique for generating entangled photons for quantum networks.
- Careful consideration of design and operational parameters is crucial for successful deployment of SPDC sources.
- Advancements in SPDC technology are essential for the continued growth of quantum communication infrastructure.
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