Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Log inSign up
Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Blog
Job Board
Q3AS

© 2026 Aqora Quantum S.A.S.

TermsPrivacyLegal Notice

arXiv:2607.25179

Co-transmission of classical data and continuous-variable entanglement over a single quantum channel

Nicholas Zaunders, Timothy C. Ralph

quant-phSubmitted Jul 28, 2026• Announced Jul 29, 2026• 0 citations
v1 · Jul 28, 2026v2 · Aug 3, 2026
arXivHTMLPDF

Abstract

Displacement-based simultaneous quantum-classical communications (SQCC) protocols, as originally proposed, are generally incompatible with the majority of useful quantum communication schemes, such as entanglement distribution or repeater-based quantum key distribution: direct measurement of the classical signal also measures and destroys the quantum state, leaving point-to-point Gaussian quantum key distribution as the only quantum communication scheme amenable to integration with SQCC. In this work, we apply the classically-modulated quantum communication protocol proposed by Zaunders and Ralph [arXiv:2606.03181v3] to circumvent this issue and demonstrate the distribution of continuous-variable Gaussian entanglement simultaneously with classical information. We characterise the quality of the distributed entangled state and outline how the scheme is suitable for use in repeater-based networks. Lastly, we compute the secret key generation rate of the Gaussian CMQC scheme in the point-to-point case and compare it to the equivalent point-to-point SQCC protocol.

Comments
19 pages, 4 figures

Related papers

Enhanced simultaneous quantum-classical communications under composable security

Nicholas Zaunders, Ziqing Wang, Robert Malaney +2 more

Simultaneous quantum-classical communications (SQCC) protocols are a family of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) protocols which allow for quantum and classical symbols to be integrated concurrently on the same optical pulse and mode. In this work, we present a revised analysis of simultaneous quantum-classical communications in Gaussian-modulated coherent-state CV-QKD protocols. We address security concerns inherently associated with SQCC schemes and provide an updated model of the coupling between the classical and quantum channels. We provide evidence for our model via Monte Carlo simulation. We compute the performance of our revised SQCC protocol in terms of the secret-key generation rate optimised over free parameters and demonstrate improved quantum efficiency for a given classical bit-error rate. Lastly, we extend our analysis into the finite-key regime, where we propose a scheme for composably-secure SQCC under realistic operating conditions and demonstrate that our scheme retains the advantage in quantum performance over previous models.

arXiv:2505.03145•Physical Review A•Sep 19, 2025•1 citation

Simultaneous quantum and classical communication via multiparameter modulation

Piao Tan, Tao Wang, Huanxi Zhao +3 more

Classical and quantum communication protocols share similarities in terms of signal modulation, transmission, and reception, providing a basis for their integration. The integration of these protocols can lead to high-efficiency and low-cost performance by utilizing a single set of communication infrastructures to simultaneously achieve continuous-variable quantum key distribution and classical communication on a single wavelength. In this paper, we propose a simultaneous quantum and classical communication (SQCC) protocol based on multiparameter modulation, which combines pulse position modulation (PPM) for classical communication and Gaussian-distributed modulation (GM) for quantum key distribution, named GMCS-PPM-SQCC protocol. Classical information is transmitted using the arrival time parameter of the coherent state, while quantum key information is distributed through the two quadrature components of the coherent state. Coherent detection is used to detect all three parameters, and different data processing schemes are utilized to extract the corresponding information. We verified the feasibility of the protocol through simulations, discussed its secure transmission distance, bit error rate, and secret key rate in realistic scenarios. Our protocol has better phase noise tolerance than traditional SQCC protocol. It can further facilitates the integration of classical and quantum communication, and contributes to the deployment and application of QKD.

Physical Review A•Mar 25, 2024•7 citations

Continuous variable quantum key distribution based on simultaneous quantum and classical communication in the terahertz band

Chengji Liu, Chao Yu, Lu Wang +2 more

Continuous variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) based on a simultaneous quantum and classical communication (SQCC) protocol can use a single coherent communication system for multiple purposes. In this paper, we propose an inter-satellite SQCC-CVQKD scheme in the terahertz (THz) band. This scheme performs classical modulation at the sending end, followed by quantum Gaussian modulation operations. At the receiving end, an amplifier is used to amplify and demultiplex the received signal, and, finally, a homodyne detector or heterodyne detector is selected for decoding. We have demonstrated the security of the SQCC-CVQKD system in the THz band, and a performance analysis of the scheme is given in the finite-size regime. The simulation results show that this scheme has a higher secret key rate and stronger anti-interference ability in practice. This work provides an effective way to construct wireless quantum communication networks.

Applied Optics•Aug 23, 2023•7 citations

Software-enhanced simultaneous quantum-classical communication protocol with Gaussian postselection

Özlem Erkılıç, Biveen Shajilal, Nicholas Zaunders +1 more

Simultaneous quantum-classical communication (SQCC) protocols offer a practical approach to continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) by encoding quantum and classical signals onto the same optical pulse. However, like most QKD protocols, their performance is limited when experimental parameters, such as modulation variance, are optimised based on stationary channel assumptions. In fluctuating environments, such as free-space links, this can result in sub-optimal key rates and reduced transmission distances. In this work, we introduce Gaussian post-selection into the SQCC framework, enabling a software-based optimisation of the modulation variance after channel estimation. This passive approach enhances key rates in both asymptotic and finite-size regimes without requiring hardware modifications and remains effective even when receiver imperfections are taken into account. We demonstrate that our protocol improves the transmission distance and robustness of SQCC relative to the standard fixed-variance SQCC protocol, and approaches the performance of a fully pre-optimised system across both fibre and free-space channels. In particular, we show that the protocol enables full communication windows under ideal weather conditions and maintains higher duty cycles during adverse weather in satellite-to-ground scenarios. These results highlight the practicality of post-selection based SQCC for real-world quantum communication over both terrestrial fibre networks and satellite-based free-space links.

arXiv:2510.13138•Physical Review A•Dec 23, 2025•1 citation

Passive continuous-variable quantum key distribution based on simultaneous quantum and classical communication in the terahertz band

Chuan Li, Guoshuai Wang, Jian Chang +2 more

Abstract We propose a passive continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) protocol based on simultaneous quantum and classical communication (SQCC) under indoor environments and in inter-satellite links within the terahertz band. In our PSQCC-CVQKD scheme, classical modulation is performed at the transmitter, followed by passive quantum modulation operations. At the receiver, an amplifier is utilized to amplify and demultiplex the received signal, and a homodyne or heterodyne detector is subsequently selected for decoding. We derive the security bounds of the protocol and evaluate its performance in both indoor environments and inter-satellite links. Furthermore, by considering finite-size effects, we achieve tighter agreement constraints, which are more practical than those obtained in the asymptotic limit. Simulation results indicate that this scheme exhibits a high secret key rate and strong jamming resistance in practical applications, providing a more efficient pathway for the construction of future quantum networks.

Laser Physics Letters•Nov 7, 2024•1 citation

Simultaneous two-way classical communication and measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution with coherent states

Dong Pan, Soon Xin Ng, Dong Ruan +3 more

Simultaneous quantum and classical communication integrates both continuous variable quantum key distribution and classical coherent optical communication by using the same communication infrastructure. Given its compelling benefits, we proposed a protocol relying on both two-way classical communication and on measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution, in which the superposition-modulation-based coherent states depend on the information bits of both the secret key and on the classical communication ciphertext, which are measured by an untrusted relay node. The proposed scheme strikes a beneficial balance between its level of security and its grade of practicability. Explicitly, on the one hand, the secret key obtained is secure against all attacks on the detectors, and it is eminently suitable for bidirectional classical communication in the metropolitan network as a benefit of its relay-based configuration. Our results show a convincing bit error rate vs secret key rate trade-off for transmission over dozens of kilometers in the quantum channel, hence striking an excellent integrity (bit error rate) vs security trade-off.

Physical Review A•Jan 27, 2020•26 citations
Displacement-based simultaneous quantum-classical communications (SQCC) protocols, as originally proposed, are generally incompatible with the majority of useful quantum communication schemes, such as entanglement distribution or repeater-based quantum key distribution: direct measurement of the classical signal also measures and destroys the quantum state, leaving point-to-point Gaussian quantum key distribution as the only quantum communication scheme amenable to integration with SQCC. In this work, we apply the classically-modulated quantum communication protocol proposed by Zaunders and Ralph [arXiv:2606.03181v3] to circumvent this issue and demonstrate the distribution of continuous-variable Gaussian entanglement simultaneously with classical information. We characterise the quality of the distributed entangled state and outline how the scheme is suitable for use in repeater-based networks. Lastly, we compute the secret key generation rate of the Gaussian CMQC scheme in the point-to-point case and compare it to the equivalent point-to-point SQCC protocol.
Simultaneous quantum-classical communications (SQCC) protocols are a family of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) protocols which allow for quantum and classical symbols to be integrated concurrently on the same optical pulse and mode. In this work, we present a revised analysis of simultaneous quantum-classical communications in Gaussian-modulated coherent-state CV-QKD protocols. We address security concerns inherently associated with SQCC schemes and provide an updated model of the coupling between the classical and quantum channels. We provide evidence for our model via Monte Carlo simulation. We compute the performance of our revised SQCC protocol in terms of the secret-key generation rate optimised over free parameters and demonstrate improved quantum efficiency for a given classical bit-error rate. Lastly, we extend our analysis into the finite-key regime, where we propose a scheme for composably-secure SQCC under realistic operating conditions and demonstrate that our scheme retains the advantage in quantum performance over previous models.
Classical and quantum communication protocols share similarities in terms of signal modulation, transmission, and reception, providing a basis for their integration. The integration of these protocols can lead to high-efficiency and low-cost performance by utilizing a single set of communication infrastructures to simultaneously achieve continuous-variable quantum key distribution and classical communication on a single wavelength. In this paper, we propose a simultaneous quantum and classical communication (SQCC) protocol based on multiparameter modulation, which combines pulse position modulation (PPM) for classical communication and Gaussian-distributed modulation (GM) for quantum key distribution, named GMCS-PPM-SQCC protocol. Classical information is transmitted using the arrival time parameter of the coherent state, while quantum key information is distributed through the two quadrature components of the coherent state. Coherent detection is used to detect all three parameters, and different data processing schemes are utilized to extract the corresponding information. We verified the feasibility of the protocol through simulations, discussed its secure transmission distance, bit error rate, and secret key rate in realistic scenarios. Our protocol has better phase noise tolerance than traditional SQCC protocol. It can further facilitates the integration of classical and quantum communication, and contributes to the deployment and application of QKD.
Continuous variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) based on a simultaneous quantum and classical communication (SQCC) protocol can use a single coherent communication system for multiple purposes. In this paper, we propose an inter-satellite SQCC-CVQKD scheme in the terahertz (THz) band. This scheme performs classical modulation at the sending end, followed by quantum Gaussian modulation operations. At the receiving end, an amplifier is used to amplify and demultiplex the received signal, and, finally, a homodyne detector or heterodyne detector is selected for decoding. We have demonstrated the security of the SQCC-CVQKD system in the THz band, and a performance analysis of the scheme is given in the finite-size regime. The simulation results show that this scheme has a higher secret key rate and stronger anti-interference ability in practice. This work provides an effective way to construct wireless quantum communication networks.
Simultaneous quantum-classical communication (SQCC) protocols offer a practical approach to continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) by encoding quantum and classical signals onto the same optical pulse. However, like most QKD protocols, their performance is limited when experimental parameters, such as modulation variance, are optimised based on stationary channel assumptions. In fluctuating environments, such as free-space links, this can result in sub-optimal key rates and reduced transmission distances. In this work, we introduce Gaussian post-selection into the SQCC framework, enabling a software-based optimisation of the modulation variance after channel estimation. This passive approach enhances key rates in both asymptotic and finite-size regimes without requiring hardware modifications and remains effective even when receiver imperfections are taken into account. We demonstrate that our protocol improves the transmission distance and robustness of SQCC relative to the standard fixed-variance SQCC protocol, and approaches the performance of a fully pre-optimised system across both fibre and free-space channels. In particular, we show that the protocol enables full communication windows under ideal weather conditions and maintains higher duty cycles during adverse weather in satellite-to-ground scenarios. These results highlight the practicality of post-selection based SQCC for real-world quantum communication over both terrestrial fibre networks and satellite-based free-space links.
Abstract We propose a passive continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) protocol based on simultaneous quantum and classical communication (SQCC) under indoor environments and in inter-satellite links within the terahertz band. In our PSQCC-CVQKD scheme, classical modulation is performed at the transmitter, followed by passive quantum modulation operations. At the receiver, an amplifier is utilized to amplify and demultiplex the received signal, and a homodyne or heterodyne detector is subsequently selected for decoding. We derive the security bounds of the protocol and evaluate its performance in both indoor environments and inter-satellite links. Furthermore, by considering finite-size effects, we achieve tighter agreement constraints, which are more practical than those obtained in the asymptotic limit. Simulation results indicate that this scheme exhibits a high secret key rate and strong jamming resistance in practical applications, providing a more efficient pathway for the construction of future quantum networks.
Simultaneous quantum and classical communication integrates both continuous variable quantum key distribution and classical coherent optical communication by using the same communication infrastructure. Given its compelling benefits, we proposed a protocol relying on both two-way classical communication and on measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution, in which the superposition-modulation-based coherent states depend on the information bits of both the secret key and on the classical communication ciphertext, which are measured by an untrusted relay node. The proposed scheme strikes a beneficial balance between its level of security and its grade of practicability. Explicitly, on the one hand, the secret key obtained is secure against all attacks on the detectors, and it is eminently suitable for bidirectional classical communication in the metropolitan network as a benefit of its relay-based configuration. Our results show a convincing bit error rate vs secret key rate trade-off for transmission over dozens of kilometers in the quantum channel, hence striking an excellent integrity (bit error rate) vs security trade-off.