
Engineers Achieve Quantum Communication Over Classical Channels | Image Source: www.yahoo.com
EVANSTON, Ill., 25 December 2024 – In an innovative development, Northwestern University engineers have enabled successful quantum communication with conventional data channels. This advance, obtained by identifying specific wavelengths with minimal interference, represents a significant step forward in integrating quantum technologies into the existing fibre optic infrastructure, according to Yahoo News.
Quantum communication: a leap forward
Quantum communication uses quantum mechanics to transmit information coded in quantum states, such as polarization or rotation, of particles such as photons. Unlike traditional communication methods, quantum communication offers unparalleled security and computing potential. However, compatibility with conventional data channels has long been a problem due to the risk of interference. This theme was addressed in the Northwest study, where researchers identified low-density wavelengths within fiber optic cables less affected by conventional traffic, making them ideal for quantum data transmission.
Experience and its advancement
The research team demonstrated quantum teleportation – a method for transferring the quantum state of a particle to another remote particle – on a 30.2 km fibre optic cable that carries 400 Gbps of conventional data. According to Northwestern University, achievements focused on selecting appropriate wavelengths and using advanced noise reduction techniques. Jordan Thomas, one of the authors of the study, stressed the importance of this process. In his words:
“When a destructive measurement is made on two photons, one with a quantum state and another with another photon, the quantum state is transferred to the remaining photon, which can be far away.”
This technique, based on entanglement, allows the quantum state of a photon to influence another, even through large distances. In particular, the photons themselves are not physically transmitted; on the contrary, it is the information encoded in their quantum states that is relaxed.
Quantum teleportation Meeting with conventional channels
One of the main obstacles to this research was to mitigate the high probability of interference of billions of photons travelling simultaneously through fibre optic cables. The success of the study in identifying less dense photon wavelengths not only supports quantum teleportation, but also demonstrates compatibility with conventional data transmission. Bell’s state measurements, made in the middle of the cable, played a crucial role in the achievement of this feat. In addition, the method could support the simultaneous transmission of several terabits of conventional data and quantum communication, paving the way for high-efficiency quantum networks.
Future implications and challenges
Although this research provides a solid basis for integrating quantum communication with existing infrastructure, problems remain. Prem Kumar, the lead investigator, stressed the need for further progress. The next steps involve the use of two pairs of enveloped photons instead of one, as well as the escalation of the experiment towards fiber optic networks in the real world. Despite these obstacles, Kumar expressed optimism about the future of quantum technologies, saying that the roadmap for general quantum communication is constantly progressing.
Quantum computing and the role of teleportation
Quantum teleportation is the backbone of this advance. The combination with conventional channels, such as the Internet, allows the transfer of quantum states in a safe and efficient way. This capacity is particularly relevant as a quantum calculation gain. Companies like Google make bold statements about their quantum advances, with the technology giant saying their last quantum chip can solve problems in seconds that would take billions of years of conventional computers to process. As quantum computing evolves, its integration with secure quantum communication channels will be crucial to unlocking its full potential.
Quantum entanglement – a phenomenon where two particles remain connected so that the state of one determines the state of the other, regardless of distance - is the basis of these innovations. However, this phenomenon does not violate the non-communication theorem, which ensures that faster communication of light (FTL) remains impossible. Rather, it serves as a unique mechanism for the safe transfer of quantum information.
As the study points out, the successful demonstration of quantum communication on a fibre optic cable carrying massive conventional traffic is an important step. While general adoption can still take place in years, the implications of this research are profound and can transform communication, cybersecurity and computing capabilities around the world.