1GHz clocked distribution of electrically generated entangled photon pairs

Abstract:

Quantum networks are essential for realising distributed quantum computation and

quantum communication. Entangled photons are a key resource, with applications such as

quantum key distribution, quantum relays, and quantum repeaters. All components integrated in

a quantum network must be synchronised and therefore comply with a certain clock frequency.

In quantum key distribution, the most mature technology, clock rates have reached and exceeded

1GHz. Here we show the first electrically pulsed sub-Poissonian entangled photon source

compatible with existing fiber networks operating at this clock rate. The entangled LED is based

on InAs/InP quantum dots emitting in the main telecom window, with a multi-photon probability

of less than 10% per emission cycle and a maximum entanglement fidelity of 89%. We use

this device to demonstrate GHz clocked distribution of entangled qubits over an installed fiber

network between two points 4.6km apart.