arXiv:0805.3414 · Applied Physics Letters

Gigahertz quantum key distribution with InGaAs avalanche photodiodes

Z. L. Yuan, A. R. Dixon, J. F. Dynes, A. W. Sharpe, A. J. Shields

Published May 19, 2008• 98 citations

Abstract

We report a demonstration of quantum key distribution (QKD) at gigahertz clock rates with InGaAs avalanche photodiodes (APDs) operating in a self-differencing mode. Such a mode of operation allows detection of extremely weak avalanches so that the detector afterpulse noise is sufficiently suppressed. The system is characterized by a secure bit rate of 2.37Mbit∕s at 5.6km and 27.9kbit∕s at 65.5km when the fiber dispersion is not compensated. After compensating the fiber dispersion, the QKD distance is extended to 101km, resulting in a secure key rate of 2.88kbit∕s. Our results suggest that InGaAs APDs are very well suited to gigahertz QKD applications.

DOI: 10.1063/1.2931070

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