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Analysis of detector performance in a gigahertz clock rate quantum key distribution system

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Published 22 July 2011 Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd
, , Citation Patrick J Clarke et al 2011 New J. Phys. 13 075008 DOI 10.1088/1367-2630/13/7/075008

1367-2630/13/7/075008

Abstract

We present a detailed analysis of a gigahertz clock rate environmentally robust phase-encoded quantum key distribution (QKD) system utilizing several different single-photon detectors, including the first implementation of an experimental resonant cavity thin-junction silicon single-photon avalanche diode. The system operates at a wavelength of 850 nm using standard telecommunications optical fibre. A general-purpose theoretical model for the performance of QKD systems is presented with reference to these experimental results before predictions are made about realistic detector developments in this system. We discuss, with reference to the theoretical model, how detector operating parameters can be further optimized to maximize key exchange rates.

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10.1088/1367-2630/13/7/075008