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Fiber optics for quantum computers

Steve Helsby, Hebe Powell, Péter Horák, Bruce G. Klappauf, Peter G. Kazansky

Published Jan 1, 2004• 0 citations
OpenAlex

Abstract

Abstract: We describe schemes for the integration of miniature optical components onto Atom Chips, for the manipulation and detection of ultra-cold atoms. Our intention is to build detectors sensitive enough to accurately detect single atoms. Two approaches are discussed: simple fluorescence detection and the use of a resonant cavity. Theory predicts that cavities with F>100 should be sufficient to obtain signal to noise ratios high enough to detect single atoms. The first micro cavities were demonstrated using mirrors formed by cleaved fiber ends coated with a stick-on dielectric coating to give F ∼100. A more successful approach involves the full integration of the mirrors and fibers by using Bragg gratings written into the fiber core: it has been possible to form gap cavities with F ~ 150. 1.

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Physical Review A•Jan 17, 2007•3 citations
Abstract: We describe schemes for the integration of miniature optical components onto Atom Chips, for the manipulation and detection of ultra-cold atoms. Our intention is to build detectors sensitive enough to accurately detect single atoms. Two approaches are discussed: simple fluorescence detection and the use of a resonant cavity. Theory predicts that cavities with F>100 should be sufficient to obtain signal to noise ratios high enough to detect single atoms. The first micro cavities were demonstrated using mirrors formed by cleaved fiber ends coated with a stick-on dielectric coating to give F ∼100. A more successful approach involves the full integration of the mirrors and fibers by using Bragg gratings written into the fiber core: it has been possible to form gap cavities with F ~ 150. 1.
This thesis reports on the progress made towards the integration of fibre optics components for the atom chip, a device developed to manipulate matter on the atomic scale for the purpose of quantum information processing, novel applications, and fundamental research. Following in the direction of the electronics industry, miniaturisation has resulted in exquisite control of cold atoms above surfaces, allowing the vision of a matter wave toolbox to come closer to fruition. However, although the size of the components necessary for guiding atoms via magnetic or electrostatic fields has been greatly reduced, there is still a need to scale down the optical components. The development of these cavities is detailed in this thesis, from early use of evaporated gold coated mirrors to the fully integral solution of photorefractive Bragg gratings. In addition to a thorough analysis of the optical properties of these fibre gap cavities, experimental results indicate that these gap cavity devices can be constructed with the sensitivity necessary for single atom detection.
Abstract Detecting single atoms (qubits) is a key requirement for implementing quantum information processing on an atom chip. The detector should ideally be integrated on the chip. Here we present and compare different methods capable of detecting neutral atoms on an atom chip. After a short introduction to fluorescence and absorption detection we discuss cavity enhanced detection of single atoms. In particular we concentrate on optical fiber based detectors such as fiber cavities and tapered fiber dipole traps. We discuss the various constraints in building such detectors in detail along with the current implementations on atom chips. Results from experimental tests of fiber integration are also described. In addition we present a pilot experiment for atom detection using a concentric cavity to verify the required scaling.
Detecting single atoms (qubits) is a key requirement for implementing quantum information processing on an atom chip. The detector should ideally be integrated on the chip. Here we present and compare different methods capable of detecting neutral atoms on an atom chip. After a short introduction to fluorescence and absorption detection we discuss cavity enhanced detection of single atoms. In particular we concentrate on optical fiber based detectors such as fiber cavities and tapered fiber dipole traps. We discuss the various constraints in building such detectors in detail along with the current implementations on atom chips. Results from experimental tests of fiber integration are also described. In addition we present a pilot experiment for atom detection using a concentric cavity to verify the required scaling.
The subject of this thesis is the miniaturization and integration of detectors for the detection of single rubidium atoms on an atom chip. For this purpose three different detectors were developed for atom detection by absorption or fluorescence: i) A fluorescence detector was realized by mounting a tapered lensed fiber perpendicular to a collection fiber. ii) An absorption detector was built by placing a multi-mode fiber in-line with a tapered lensed fiber. iii) A tunable cavity detector was built from two single mode fibers mounted on the chip surface. To mount the detectors on the planar surface of the atom chip retaining structures by means of lithographical techniques were developed. Those structures allow a very accurate and stable passive fiber alignment. To test the individual detectors an atomic ensemble of thermal rubidium atoms was prepared in a magneto-optical trap. Then the atoms were transferred into magnetic micro-traps of the atom chip and were guided to one of the detectors. Each integrated detector has been evaluated by several characterization measurements. With the fluorescence detector the highest single atom detection efficiency of 54\\% was attained. Thereby it was possible to perform quantitative measurements for the magnetically guided atoms on a single atom level and to study fundamental properties of the confined atoms.