Quantum All-Optical Transponder (QOAT)

Quantum networks will be tasked with entangling physically separated quantum nodes and facilitating secure communication between distant parties. This necessitates the development of devices that can support high data rate transparent optical quantum networks that coexist with classical networks on a shared optical fiber transmission system. Freedom Photonics will develop a Quantum All-Optical Transponder, or QOAT, based on in-band quantum frequency conversion (QFC). This transponder will make it possible to implement any-to-any frequency hopping using low-noise electro-optic techniques, supporting high data rate transparent optical quantum networks. Phase I will be used to prove the feasibility of the proposed approach and reduce Phase II technical risk. Several different transponder architectures will be evaluated. The main transponder components will be designed and modeled. Once the main components have been designed, the physical integration of these components to form the transponder will be analyzed. This technology can be applied to facilitate agile wavelength routing in high speed quantum networks, with direct impact on quantum computing, quantum sensing and quantum communications, with large commercial potential as quantum technology materializes and quantum-based products get deployed. In addition to the commercial applications, the transponder would be of immediate benefit to quantum technology programs at the Department of Energy and other Government organizations.