Stark Echo Modulation for Quantum Memories

TL;DR

The paper introduces Stark Echo Modulation Memory (SEMM), a protocol for solid-state quantum memories that achieves high bandwidth, low noise, and high fidelity storage of optical and microwave photons using electric field-induced phase shifts.

Contribution

It proposes SEMM, a novel echo-based protocol utilizing the linear Stark effect for efficient, broadband, and low-noise quantum memory in solid-state systems.

Findings

High suppression of unwanted collective emissions.

Demonstrated broadband storage with high fidelity.

Compatible with single photon level operation.

Abstract

Quantum memories for optical and microwave photons provide key functionalities in quantum processing and communications. Here we propose a protocol well adapted to solid state ensemble based memories coupled to cavities. It is called Stark Echo Modulation Memory (SEMM), and allows large storage bandwidths and low noise. This is achieved in a echo like sequence combined with phase shifts induced by small electric fields through the linear Stark effect. We investigated the protocol for rare earth nuclear spins and found a high suppression of unwanted collective emissions that is compatible with single photon level operation. Broadband storage together with high fidelity for the Stark retrieval process is also demonstrated. SEMM could be used to store optical or microwave photons in ions and/or spins. This includes NV centers in diamond and rare earth doped crystals, which are among the most promising solid-state quantum memories.