FPGA-based adaptive control for phase stabilization in fiber-optic interferometers using correlated photons

Area of Science:

• Quantum communication
• Quantum optics
• Photonics

Background:

• Phase noise limits stable operation in fiber-optic quantum communication.
• Time-bin encoded photon pairs are crucial for robust quantum transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement an adaptive algorithm for real-time phase stabilization in quantum communication systems.
• To mitigate the effects of phase noise in optical fiber transmission.

Main Methods:

• An adaptive perturbation-and-observe algorithm was implemented on a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) platform.
• Real-time feedback control at 1 Hz was utilized, deriving the control signal from correlated photon pair coincidence counts.

Main Results:

• The adaptive approach reduced system rise time by 70% and coincidence noise by 30%.
• Visibility improvements were sustained for over 600 seconds, demonstrating long-term stability.
• The system achieved efficient phase stabilization in quantum and photonic systems.

Conclusions:

• The developed adaptive algorithm offers an efficient solution for long-term phase stabilization.
• This method enhances the robustness and stability of quantum communication systems.
• The FPGA-based real-time feedback system improves the performance of photonic systems against phase noise.