Optical injection locking in quantum key distribution

Abstract

A receiver for a quantum key distribution system is provided, which receives optical signal(s) including a first signal and a second signal. The first signal is injected into laser which operates as a local oscillator at the receiver. The second signal is quantum signal carrying quantum key data and detected coherently based on the local oscillator provided by the injected laser.

Description

technical field [0001] Embodiments of the invention relate to the field of quantum key distribution (QKD). Background technique [0002] QKD is a technique that enables two remote legitimate parties to establish a public (or shared) secret key in a manner that takes into account the laws of quantum mechanics, preventing eavesdropping on the communication channel used. [0003] Specifically, a shared secret key is a piece of information that is known by both legitimate parties but not by anyone else. Since the shared secret (key) is known only to legitimate parties, it plays a key role in cryptography and has several applications such as secure communication (eg, encryption, decryption, and authentication of messages). [0004] In optical data communications, an eavesdropper (often referred to as Eve) can obtain information about the signal transmitted from the sender to the receiver (often referred to as Alice and Bob, respectively) e.g. by separating and detecting a portio...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, single-photon sources and detectors are expensive and difficult to miniaturize

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