Free space quantum key distribution over 500 meters using electrically driven quantum dot single-photon sources-a proof of principle experiment
Abstract
Highly efficient single-photon sources (SPS) can increase the secure key rate of quantum key distribution (QKD) systems compared to conventional attenuated laser systems. Here we report on a free space QKD test using an electrically driven quantum dot single-photon source (QD SPS) that does not require a separate laser setup for optical pumping and thus allows for a simple and compact SPS QKD system. We describe its implementation in our 500 m free space QKD system in downtown Munich. Emulating a BB84 protocol operating at a repetition rate of 125 MHz, we could achieve sifted key rates of 5-17 kHz with error ratios of 6-9% and g((2))(0)-values of 0.39-0.76.
Citation
Rau , M , Heindel , T , Unsleber , S , Braun , T , Fischer , J , Frick , S , Nauerth , S , Schneider , C , Vest , G , Reitzenstein , S , Kamp , M , Forchel , A , Hoefling , S & Weinfurter , H 2014 , ' Free space quantum key distribution over 500 meters using electrically driven quantum dot single-photon sources-a proof of principle experiment ' , New Journal of Physics , vol. 16 , 043003 . https://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/16/4/043003
Publication
New Journal of Physics
Status
Peer reviewed
ISSN
1367-2630Type
Journal article
Description
The authors gratefully acknowledge expert sample preparation by M Emmerling and A Wolf as well as financial support by the German Ministry of Education and Research through the project QPENS and QUASAR.Collections
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