Gigahertz decoy quantum key distribution with 1 Mbit/s secure key rate

Opt Express. 2008 Nov 10;16(23):18790-7. doi: 10.1364/oe.16.018790.

Abstract

We report the first gigahertz clocked decoy-protocol quantum key distribution (QKD). Record key rates have been achieved thanks to the use of self-differencing InGaAs avalanche photodiodes designed specifically for high speed single photon detection. The system is characterized with a secure key rate of 1.02 Mbit/s for a fiber distance of 20 km and 10.1 kbit/s for 100 km. As the present advance relies upon compact non-cryogenic detectors, it opens the door towards practical and low cost QKD systems to secure broadband communication in future.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Communication Networks / instrumentation*
  • Computer Security / instrumentation*
  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Microwaves
  • Quantum Theory
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation*