Quantum information applications of frequency upconversion

We demonstrate the utility of frequency upconversion in a non-linear crystal for quantum information applications. By combining a bright “escort” beam with a signal photon inside of a periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystal, we are able to achieve near unit conversion efficiency. We use this conversion process to create high-efficiency infrared single-photon detectors by upconverting infrared photons to visible ones and using efficient silicon avalanche photo diodes to detect the upconverted photon. We have achieved a net system detection efficiency of 56%, far superior to previous methods for infrared photon detection. We also demonstrate the phase coherence of the upconversion process, which enables it to convert photonic qubits from one wavelength to another, potentially allowing quantum networks of disparate operating wavelengths to communicate efficiently. This quantum “transduction” feature is observed by upconverting photons passed between two unbalanced Michelson interferometers that create and measure time-bin qubits, similar to those used in many quantum cryptography systems, and verifying that the phase of the qubits is preserved. The Rabi oscillation-like behavior of upconversion is also demonstrated, allowing for the creation and manipulation of highly non-degenerate frequency qubits. These states may be used in conjunction with other degrees of freedom such as polarization, time-bin, or orbital angular momentum states to enlarge the usable single-photon Hilbert space and create a rich vocabulary for transmission of quantum information.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Physics

Year dc:date

2012

Author dc:creator

• VanDevender, Aaron Pace

• quantum information
• rabi oscillation
• Oscillation
• polarization
• escort beam
• photonic
• wavelength
• time-bin
• orbital angular momentum
• single-photon
• photon
• hilbert space
• infrared photon
• ppln
• phasematching
• coherence
• atom simulator
• polarization switch
• sagnac switchl mach-zehnder switch- phase modulation

Statement dc:rights

• 2007 VanDevender ©

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/35236

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/35236