Linearly Multiplexed Photon Number Resolving Single-photon Detectors Array

TL;DR

This paper investigates the design and performance of a linearly multiplexed photon number-resolving detector array integrated on a waveguide, analyzing how losses and dark counts affect its fidelity through theoretical and simulation methods.

Contribution

It introduces a practical design framework for a waveguide-integrated PNRD array and analyzes the impact of losses and dark counts on its performance.

Findings

Propagation losses significantly reduce fidelity.

Dark counts adversely affect photon number resolution.

Proper mitigation strategies are essential for practical implementation.

Abstract

Photon Number Resolving Detectors (PNRDs) are devices capable of measuring the number of photons present in an incident optical beam, enabling light sources to be measured and characterized at the quantum level. In this paper, we explore the performance and design considerations of a linearly multiplexed photon number-resolving single-photon detector array, integrated on a single mode waveguide. Our investigation focus on defining and analyzing the fidelity of such an array under various conditions and proposing practical designs for its implementation. Through theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, we show how propagation losses and dark counts may have a strong impact on the performance of the system and highlight the importance of mitigating these effects in practical implementations.