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Mean-photon-number modulation with threshold photon counting for quantum-limited coherent-state binary optical
Applied Optics
|March 17, 2026
Summary
This study introduces an energy-efficient optical communication system using coherent states and photon counting. It analyzes performance in realistic noise and turbulence, offering insights for low-power systems.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Communication
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- Conventional optical communication often assumes idealized detection.
- Realistic noise and channel impairments significantly impact system performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a practical optical communication framework using coherent states and photon counting.
- To analyze the framework's performance under realistic channel conditions.
- To propose a pilot-based channel estimation for adaptive threshold selection.
Main Methods:
- Coherent-state modulation with distinct mean photon numbers.
- Threshold-based photon counting detection.
- Analysis under noise-free, Poisson noise, and turbulent free-space optical channels.
- Pilot-based channel estimation for adaptive thresholding.
Main Results:
- Derivation of closed-form expressions for decision thresholds and error probabilities.
- Validation of the scheme's effectiveness through numerical simulations.
- Demonstration of energy-efficient transmission in the quantum-limited regime.
Conclusions:
- The proposed framework offers photon-efficient, low-power optical communication.
- The system is robust against realistic physical impairments.
- Design insights are provided for practical optical communication systems.
