• ETRI Journal
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• v.46 no.5
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• pp.806-816
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• 2024

In this study, we report a transmitter system for free-space quantum key distribution (QKD) using the BB84 protocol, which does not require an internal alignment process, by using a wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) filter and polarization-encoding module. With a custom-made WDM filter, the signals required for QKD can be integrated by simply connecting fibers, thus avoiding the laborious internal alignment required for free-space QKD systems using conventional bulk-optic setups. The WDM filter is designed to multiplex the single-mode signals from 785-nm quantum and 1550-nm synchronization channels for spatial-mode matching while maintaining the polarization relations. The measured insertion loss and isolation are 1.8 dB and 32.6 dB for 785 nm and 0.7 dB and 28.3 dB for 1550 nm, respectively. We also evaluate the QKD performance of the proposed system. The sifted key rate and quantum bit error rate are 1.6 Mbps and 0.62%, respectively, at an operating speed of 100 MHz, rendering our system comparable to conventional systems using bulk-optic devices for channel integration.

• Electronics and Telecommunications Trends
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• v.33 no.6
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• pp.94-106
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• 2018

A quantum key distribution (QKD) provides in principle an unconditional secure communication unlike the standard public key cryptography depending on the computational complexity. In particular, free-space QKD can give a secure solution even without a fiber-based infrastructure. In this paper, we investigate an overview of recent research trends in the free-space QKD system, including satellite and handheld moving platforms. In addition, we show the key components for a free-space QKD system such as the integrated components, single photon detectors, and quantum random number generator. We discuss the technical challenges and progress toward a future free- space QKD system and components.

• Journal of Astronomy and Space Sciences
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• v.32 no.2
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• pp.151-159
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• 2015

The fundamental conception in physics of the propagation of the electromagnetic wave polarization in matter is newly understood as the cardinal keyword in free-space quantum communication technology and cosmology in astrophysics. Interactive visualization of the propagation mechanism of polarized electromagnetism in a medium with its helicity has accordingly received attention from scientists exploiting the protocol of quantum key distribution (QKD) to guarantee unconditional security in cryptography communication. We have provided a dynamic polarization platform for presenting the polarization modes of a transverse electromagnetic wave, converting the state of polarization through the arrangement of optical elements, using Jones vectors calculations in Methematica. The platform graphically simulates the mechanism of production and propagation of the polarized waves in a medium while satisfying Maxwell's equations.