Influence of Cooling on Quantum Network Deployment

TL;DR

This paper explores how strategic cooling placement in quantum networks can reduce costs, proposing algorithms to optimize the deployment of superconducting detectors that require expensive cooling.

Contribution

It introduces a linear programming algorithm and heuristic for optimal cooling placement in quantum networks, demonstrating cost-effective solutions.

Findings

Co-locating cooled detectors reduces overall cooling costs.

Cooling costs can surpass equipment costs but still be optimized.

Proposed algorithms effectively improve network deployment efficiency.

Abstract

Superconducting detectors for quantum key distribution require expensive cooling but have advantageous detection properties. A linear programming algorithm and heuristic for network cooling placement are proposed and validated. Co-locating cooled detectors provides cost-effective solutions even when cooling costs exceed the equipment cost of multiple links.