Invention Reference Number
As the demand for data transmission grows, optical networks have expanded from the standard C-band (1530–1565 nm) into the L-band (1565–1625 nm) to nearly double capacity. This expansion is vital for classical and quantum networking. While classical networks have leveraged this spectrum, quantum networks still require more advanced tools. Efficiently distributing entangled photons over the entire C+L-band opens the door for more effective quantum communication. The ability to distribute and manage entanglement in a flex-grid optical network is key to developing a future quantum internet.
Description
This technology demonstrates an ultrabroadband, two-photon source capable of distributing polarization-entangled photons across the C+L-band spectrum. It uses wavelength-selective switches (WSSs) for spectral routing, providing precise control over photon pairs spanning 7.5 THz across 150 channel pairs (25-GHz-wide channels). The system uses a fiber Sagnac loop with a periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) waveguide to produce polarization-entangled photon pairs. Polarization state tomography confirms a high fidelity of 0.98 on average, with total distillable entanglement greater than 181 kebits/s, making it ideal for flex-grid quantum networking applications.
Benefits
- High fidelity: Average fidelity of 0.98 for polarization entanglement across 150 channel pairs.
- Broadband capability: Utilizes both the C- and L-bands, expanding network capacity.
- Flexible routing: Wavelength-selective switches enable adaptive routing of photon pairs based on network needs.
- Quantum network ready: Supports scalable quantum communication protocols like dense coding, teleportation, and entanglement swapping.
Applications and Industries
- Quantum networks: Enables high-fidelity entanglement distribution for quantum internet and secure communication.
- Optical communication systems: Supports flex-grid networks for efficient bandwidth utilization.
- Quantum information processing: Useful in experiments requiring entanglement in both polarization and frequency domains.
- Telecom sector: Integration into next-generation fiber-optic communication systems for high-capacity data transmission.
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
