Quantum key distribution system in standard telecommunications fiber using a short wavelength single-photon source

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates quantum key distribution over 2 km of standard telecom fiber using a novel short-wavelength single-photon source based on a quantum dot microcavity, analyzing its performance at various excitation powers.

Contribution

It introduces a quantum key distribution system utilizing a quantum dot single-photon source at 895 nm in standard fiber, with detailed characterization and analysis of system parameters.

Findings

Quantum key distribution achieved over 2 km fiber

Performance varies with excitation power

Quantum bit error rate and key exchange rate analyzed

Abstract

A demonstration of the principles of quantum key distribution is performed using a single-photon source in a proof of concept test-bed over a distance of 2 km in standard telecommunications optical fiber. The single-photon source was an optically-pumped quantum dot in a microcavity emitting at a wavelength of 895 nm. Characterization of the quantum key distribution parameters was performed at a range of different optical excitation powers. An investigation of the effect of varying the optical excitation power of the quantum dot microcavity on the quantum bit error rate and cryptographic key exchange rate of the system are presented.