Title :
Dual-Threshold Balanced Homodyne Detection at 1550 nm Optical Fiber Quantum Key Distribution System
Author :
Xu, Q. ; Sabban, M. ; Silva, M. B Costa e ; Gallion, P. ; Mendieta, F.J.
Author_Institution :
TELECOM ParisTech, Ecole Nat. Super. des Telecommun., Paris, France
Abstract :
We present a flexible quantum key distribution (QKD) system implementation using quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK) encoding. Two detection techniques are implemented and compared: a photon counting detection scheme using single photon avalanche diodes (SPAD) and a dual-threshold balanced homodyne detection (BHD) using standard PIN diodes in which the weak signal is time-multiplexed with a strong reference. The interferometer instability and the system phase fluctuations are compensated by an optoelectronic feedback loop that allows an automatic continuous operation. We compare the QKD system performance for both schemes in terms of BER and key generation efficiency. Finally, we analyze the BHD QKD system security under the potential individual intercept-resend attack and the intermediate-base attack.
Keywords :
avalanche diodes; optical communication equipment; optical fibre communication; p-i-n diodes; quadrature phase shift keying; quantum cryptography; PIN diodes; QPSK; balanced homodyne detection; optical fiber quantum key distribution system; quadrature phase shift keying encoding; single photon avalanche diode; time multiplexing; wavelength 1550 nm; BB84 protocol, homodyne detection; quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK); quantum cryptography;
Journal_Title :
Lightwave Technology, Journal of
DOI :
10.1109/JLT.2008.2009949
