Phase stabilization of a coherent fibre network by single-photon counting

TL;DR

This paper introduces a simple phase stabilization method for quantum fibre networks using single-photon counting, eliminating the need for complex stabilization setups and enhancing quantum channel efficiency.

Contribution

The authors propose a novel phase stabilization technique based on single-photon counting applicable to quantum fibre networks, demonstrated through experiments with single-photon interference and absorption.

Findings

Achieved dissipative single-photon switching with ~80% visibility.

Demonstrated phase stabilization without classical stabilization rigs.

Potential for improved efficiency in complex quantum networks.

Abstract

Coherent optical fibre networks are extremely sensitive to thermal, mechanical and acoustic noise, which requires elaborate schemes of phase stabilization with dedicated auxiliary lasers, multiplexers and photodetectors. This is particularly demanding in quantum networks operating at the single-photon level. Here we propose a simple method of phase stabilization based on single-photon counting and apply it to quantum fibre networks implementing single-photon interference on a lossless beamsplitter and coherent perfect absorption on a metamaterial absorber. As a proof of principle, we show dissipative single-photon switching with visibility close to 80%. This method can be employed in quantum networks of greater complexity without classical stabilization rigs, potentially increasing efficiency of the quantum channels.