Side-channel-free quantum key distribution source using a KTP polarization modulator and a broadband laser

Tahereh Rezaei; Andrew Conrad; Phil Battle; Daniel Gauthier; Paul Kwiat

doi:10.1117/12.2648018

27 March 2023 Side-channel-free quantum key distribution source using a KTP polarization modulator and a broadband laser

Tahereh Rezaei, Andrew Conrad, Phil Battle, Daniel Gauthier, Paul Kwiat

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume PC12446, Quantum Computing, Communication, and Simulation III; PC1244617 (2023) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2648018
Event: SPIE Quantum West, 2023, San Francisco, California, United States

Conference Poster

Abstract

We present progress on demonstrating a side-channel-free, decoy-state quantum key distribution (QKD) source based on a polarization-modulator and a wavelength-stable attenuated pulsed laser. By modulating the polarization of the quantum state, a three-state QKD protocol is achieved. The polarization-modulator-based QKD source improves security by removing several sources of side-channel attacks that exist when multiple sources are used to generate different QKD states. Here we present our single-source design, as well as an evaluation of critical subsystems characterized by the quantum bit error rate (QBER), quantum state tomography, and achievable key rates. The QKD source is intended to operate using minimal size, weight, and power (SWaP). In our system, we use a custom KTP waveguide modulator designed and fabricated by AdvR. Our QKD source can be operated using both narrow-band and broadband lasers, and we present characterization data using a He-Ne laser, and a diode laser, respectively. The polarization-modulator-based QKD source has applications in future mobile quantum networks incorporating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and autonomous vehicles, as well as fiber-based quantum networks.

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Tahereh Rezaei, Andrew Conrad, Phil Battle, Daniel Gauthier, and Paul Kwiat "Side-channel-free quantum key distribution source using a KTP polarization modulator and a broadband laser", Proc. SPIE PC12446, Quantum Computing, Communication, and Simulation III, PC1244617 (27 March 2023); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2648018

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