Philippe Velha

Development of a Low-Cost Single Photon Detection System for Quantum Optics Measurements

Introduction and Motivation

Single photon detectors (SPDs) are critical components in quantum optics, quantum communication, and quantum information processing. Traditional commercial single photon detectors are often prohibitively expensive, creating a significant barrier to entry for research laboratories and educational institutions with limited funding. This thesis aims to address this challenge by designing and implementing a low-cost single photon detection system using readily available components.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives of this research are:

• Develop a single photon detection system with high sensitivity and low noise based on on an LED near breakdown
• Create a cost-effective alternative to commercial SPDs even with relatively poor performances
• Implement a comprehensive statistical analysis framework for photon arrival measurements
• Provide a replicable design that can be used in educational and research settings

Theoretical Background

Single Photon Detection Principles Single photon detection relies on converting individual photons into measurable electrical signals. The key challenges include:

• Achieving high quantum efficiency and high amplification gain
• Minimizing dark count rates
• Maintaining low noise equivalent power
• Ensuring high temporal resolution

Photon Arrival Statistics The research will focus on characterizing photon arrival statistics using techniques like:

• Intensity correlation measurements
• Bunching and antibunching analysis
• Poissonian distribution examination

Proposed Methodology

Hardware Components Proposed low-cost detection system components:

• Photosensitive semiconductor like a reverse biased LED or other low cost component
• Low-noise transimpedance amplifier
• Microcontroller/FPGA for signal processing
• Precision timing circuit
• Optical filtering components

Detector Design Considerations

• Maximize quantum efficiency through careful semiconductor selection
• Design multi-stage signal amplification and discrimination
• Develop robust noise filtering algorithms (Optional)

Statistical Measurement Setup

• Create data acquisition software for real-time photon event recording
• Design statistical analysis algorithms to process photon arrival data

Experimental Validation

Performance Characterization Proposed performance metrics:

• Quantum efficiency
• Dark count rate
• Detection probability
• Temporal resolution
• Signal-to-noise ratio

Comparative Analysis Compare the developed system against:

• Commercial single photon detectors
• Theoretical quantum detection limits
• Existing low-cost detection approaches

Anticipated Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

Potential Challenges:

• Maintaining low noise levels
• Achieving high quantum efficiency
• Precise timing measurements
• Cost constraints

Mitigation Strategies:

• Iterative design refinement
• Careful component selection
• Advanced signal processing techniques
• Comprehensive simulation and modeling

Potential Scientific Contributions

• Provide an accessible, low-cost single photon detection platform
• Develop open-source design for scientific community
• Demonstrate feasibility of high-performance, budget-friendly quantum optical measurements
• Create educational resources for quantum optics research