Unlocking Quantum Communication: Empowering Entangled Photon Pairs with Temperature-Insensitive TechnologyThe Need: In the rapidly advancing realm of quantum information science, there's an escalating demand for reliable sources of entangled photon pairs. These photon pairs serve as fundamental building blocks for various quantum communication technologies. Presently, maintaining these sources necessitates precise temperature control well below 1 degree Celsius, adding substantial complexity and cost to the devices. As the pursuit of long-distance quantum communication networks intensifies globally, the need for a source capable of operating efficiently across a wide temperature range without the burdensome requirements of large temperature controllers becomes paramount. The Technology: Spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) stands as a pivotal process for generating entangled photon pairs. Traditionally, this involves pumping a birefringent and nonlinear crystal with a laser beam to produce photon pairs at distinct wavelengths. Achieving efficient generation mandates conservation of energy and momentum, often facilitated by phase-matching techniques such as angle or temperature tuning. Notably, periodic poling can also enable phase-matching in certain scenarios. Innovatively, recent developments have led to temperature-insensitive designs, such as periodically-poled LiNbO₃ waveguides, expanding the temperature bandwidth while maintaining operational efficiency. Commercial Applications:
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Tech IDT2023-153 CollegeLicensing ManagerDahlman, Jason "Jay" InventorsCategories |