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Advanced Quantum Technologies

Metrology Perspective of Single‐Photon Detectors: Review on Global Calibration Methods

Anish Mahavir Bhargav, Rajib Kumar Rakshit, Samaresh Das, Manju Singh

Published Aug 12, 2021• 14 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Abstract The evolution of quantum standards for SI units and funding support from national governments has led to rapid technological developments in the quantum sciences. With this, new and more powerful quantum optical devices that find applications in several fields are obtained. Single‐photon detectors (SPDs) are considered as a critical element in these emerging technologies. A traceability chain for SPD calibration is required to ensure their performance reliability and quality. Different methods and techniques are being developed worldwide for the calibration of SPDs. In this paper, the developments that have occurred globally in SPD calibration and the uncertainty value achieved until now are summarized along with the scope of possible improvement areas.

DOI
10.1002/qute.202100008

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Abstract The evolution of quantum standards for SI units and funding support from national governments has led to rapid technological developments in the quantum sciences. With this, new and more powerful quantum optical devices that find applications in several fields are obtained. Single‐photon detectors (SPDs) are considered as a critical element in these emerging technologies. A traceability chain for SPD calibration is required to ensure their performance reliability and quality. Different methods and techniques are being developed worldwide for the calibration of SPDs. In this paper, the developments that have occurred globally in SPD calibration and the uncertainty value achieved until now are summarized along with the scope of possible improvement areas.
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We will present our current efforts on single photon quantum metrology using high-efficiency superconducting detectors and high-efficiency single-photon sources based on spontaneous parametric downconversion. Optical power measurements based on single photon counting could establish a quantum standard for optical power calibration in the future. At NIST we are pursuing the development of single photon sources and single photon detectors for metrology, quantum and classical applications. As part of these efforts, we are pursuing the establishment of a measurement service for the calibration of single photon detectors. We present how our calibration is tied to the calibration of our transfer standard optical fiber power meters. Using the beamsplitter method, we have implemented a fiber-coupled and free-space measurement system. Also, we have developed testbeds and measurement protocols for the characterization of single photon sources and single photon detectors. We will review several methods, which allow for the characterization of the spatial and spectral degree of freedom in spontaneous parametric downconversion.
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