Laser laboratory of the Application Center for Quantum Communication

The Application Center for Quantum Communication provides companies and research institutions with experimental environments and design services for developing microelectronic components as well as a test route for quantum communication. 

The laser laboratory forms the basis for quantum key distribution (QKD) setups based on entangled photon pairs. These optical setups are designed and built in the laboratory for use in the development and testing of modular nanoelectronic components. The laboratory is also available to partners for characterizing electro-optical components. 

Focus of the laser laboratory

Quantum communication

Who can use the lab equipment?

German federal and state agencies, public institutions, companies in the field of quantum key distribution

What can testers do in the quantum communication lab?

The application center has two operational prototype quantum communication systems based on polarization- and phase-entangled photons. This enables quantum-secured communication via glass fibers within the Fraunhofer IIS institute building in Dresden and between the institute and another Fraunhofer institute in Dresden. A long-distance connection between Dresden and Chemnitz is also being set up and is scheduled to go into operation in mid-2025. Cooperation partners will then also be able to use this route.

The available entangled photon pair sources are state-of-the-art and enable high counting rates with a high degree of quantum mechanical entanglement. Researchers can use the setup to push the limits of existing electronics and advance them further.

Main application areas of the laser lab

• Tap-proof communication (QKD link between Dresden and Jena via several trusted nodes, in preparation)
• Tests and advancement of protocols and solutions most suitable for QKD via glass fibers
• Development of integrated and modular electronics for QKD 
• Development of innovative, quantum-based transmission protocols such as superdense coding