Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), in collaboration with EPB of Chattanooga and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), have successfully demonstrated the first transmission of an entangled quantum signal using multiple wavelength channels and automatic polarization stabilization over a commercial network with no downtime. This innovation marks a significant step toward the development of a more secure and capable quantum internet.
The team utilized automatic polarization compensation (APC) to stabilize quantum signals transmitted over EPB’s fiber-optic network, ensuring uninterrupted operation for over 30 hours. The method, which employs reference signals generated by lasers, minimizes interference caused by environmental factors like temperature changes and wind, preserving the integrity of quantum communication.
Joseph Chapman, the ORNL quantum research scientist leading the study, emphasized the importance of seamless quantum communication for users, noting that the APC method eliminates the need for scheduled downtime. The demonstration involved transmitting polarization-entangled photons, a key component of quantum networks, across EPB’s quantum network nodes.
The collaboration highlights the potential of quantum networks to revolutionize secure communication and computing. EPB CEO David Wade and UTC Vice Chancellor Reinhold Mann praised the partnership for advancing quantum research and preparing the community for future quantum technologies.
For additional details, view the news release posted on the ORNL website here.
January 14, 2025
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