Time-bin encoded quantum key distribution over 120 km with a telecom quantum dot source

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a stable, long-distance quantum key distribution system using a quantum dot single-photon source with time-bin encoding at telecom wavelengths, achieving high secure key rates over 120 km fiber.

Contribution

First experimental integration of a quantum dot single-photon source with time-bin encoding for telecom-band QKD, showing long-distance stability and high secure key rate.

Findings

Successful 120 km fiber QKD demonstration

Maintained stability over 6 hours of continuous operation

Achieved highest secure key rate among similar systems

Abstract

Quantum key distribution (QKD) with deterministic single photon sources has been demonstrated over intercity fiber and free-space channels. The previous implementations relied mainly on polarization encoding schemes, which are susceptible to birefringence, polarization-mode dispersion and polarization-dependent loss in practical fiber networks. In contrast, time-bin encoding offers inherent robustness and has been widely adopted in mature QKD systems using weak coherent laser pulses. However, its feasibility in conjunction with a deterministic single-photon source has not yet been experimentally demonstrated. In this work, we construct a time-bin encoded QKD system employing a high-brightness quantum dot (QD) single-photon source operating at telecom wavelength. Our proof-of-concept experiment successfully demonstrates the possibility of secure key distribution over fiber link of 120 km, while maintaining extraordinary long-term stability over 6 hours of continuous operation. This work provides the first experimental validation of integrating a quantum dot single-photon source with time-bin encoding in a telecom-band QKD system. In addition, it demonstrates the highest secure key rate among the time-bin QKDs based on single-photon sources. This development signifies a substantial advancement in the establishment of a robust and scalable QKD network based on solid-state single-photon technology