Abstract:

Advanced optical quantum information processing applications place stringent demands on the performance of key components such as single-photon detectors [1].  A new class of single-photon detectors based on superconducting nanowires has recently emerged, offering telecom-wavelength sensitivity, combined with low dark counts, short recovery times and low timing jitter.  I will describe the basic operating principle of this type of device, the current state-of-the-art and prospects for improvements.  I will also discuss implementations of these devices in quantum information processing applications such as quantum key distribution [2], characterization of quantum emitters and operation of quantum waveguide circuits [3].

[1] Hadfield R. H. Nature Photonics 3 696 (2009)

[2] Takesue H. et al Nature Photonics 1 343 (2007)