Qinetiq Limited

Qubitekk, Inc.

Stephen Gerard Ayling

Simon Robert Wiseman

Brian Sinclair Lowans

David R Wight

Ewan David Finlayson

Michael B Allenson

The present invention relates to an improved quantum signal transmitter, which has a plurality of quantum output channels having at least one optical source and at least one optical splitter acting on the output of said at least one source. Such a transmitter can easily be used with existing passive optical network (PON) systems and can be a compact piece of equipment.

Multiplexed quantum key distribution

Methods and apparatus for use in quantum key distribution (QKD) are described. A quantum QKD signal is generated at a source and transmitted through a fiber optic network to an endpoint, a key being agreed with communication over a classical QKD channel. The classical QKD channel contains additional information relevant to a network over which keys are distributed, and may be processed at nodes intermediate between the source and the endpoint.

Methods and apparatus for use in quantum key distribution

The invention relates to methods and apparatus for Quantum key distribution. Such methods including authenticating a first node in a communications network with a remote node in the communications network. The authentication may include connecting an authentication device to the first node, agreeing a quantum key between the first node and the remote node based on a quantum signal transmitted or received by the first node and performing an authentication step between the authentication device and the remote node on an encrypted channel. Authentication between the authentication device and remote node may be taken as authentication of the first node.

Quantum key distribution

A light emitting device for generating at least one beam of output radiation from an input current of electrons comprises at least two p-n junction devices for converting the input current of electrons into photons, wherein the p-n junction devices are electrically connected in series such that the input impedance of the light emitting device is substantially equal to the sum of the individual impedance of the p-n junction devices. Hence the quantum efficiency of the light emitting device is substantially equal to the sum of the individual quantum efficiencies of the p-n junction devices. In a preferred embodiment, the light emitting device comprises a plurality of p-n junction devices connected in series such that the input impedance of the light emitting device is equal to 50 &OHgr; without the need for additional circuitry or impedance matching elements. The device may therefore have a 50 &OHgr; impedance over a broad frequency band, limited by the modulation frequency limit of the individual p-n junctions. Typically, the p-n junctions may be AlGaAs, AlGaInP, AlGaInAs or AlGaInAsp laser diode devices. The invention also relates to an optically coupled bipolar transistor device.

Growing community of inventors

Malvern, United Kingdom

Stephen Gerard Ayling