Quantum state measurements using multi-pixel photon detectors

TL;DR

This paper develops a model for multi-pixel photon detectors with avalanche photodiodes, incorporating cross-talk effects, and demonstrates their application in quantum state characterization and tomography.

Contribution

The paper introduces a comprehensive model for multi-pixel detectors including cross-talk, validated through experiments, enhancing quantum state measurement techniques.

Findings

Accurately models cross-talk effects in multi-pixel detectors.

High-precision reconstruction of photon number distributions.

Assesses detector performance for quantum state tomography.

Abstract

The characterization and conditional preparation of multi-photon quantum states requires the use of photon number resolving detectors. We study the use of detectors based on multiple avalanche photodiode pixels in this context. We develop a general model that provides the positive operator value measures for these detectors. The model incorporates the effect of cross-talk between pixels which is unique to these devices. We validate the model by measuring coherent state photon number distributions and reconstructing them with high precision. Finally, we evaluate the suitability of such detectors for quantum state tomography and entanglement-based quantum state preparation, highlighting the effects of dark counts and cross-talk between pixels.