Quantum information and traditional data can be transmitted through the same optical fiber

For a long time, quantum communication has attracted much attention due to its unique quantum properties, but how to effectively and securely transmit quantum information has always been a major challenge for scientists. The traditional view holds that in order to avoid interference from traditional data on quantum information, separate infrastructure or dedicated channels need to be provided for quantum data. However, the latest research results of Michael Koos' team have overturned this concept, proving that quantum information and traditional data can coexist harmoniously in the same fiber channel.

The team led by Michael Koos, director of the Institute of Photonics at Leibniz University in Germany, has successfully transmitted quantum information and traditional data through the same fiber channel for the first time. This means that in theory, the future quantum Internet can use the existing infrastructure. The relevant paper was published in the journal Science Advances.

Fiber optic cables are the cornerstone of modern communication networks, typically composed of thin glass or plastic fibers, transmitting data through different color channels in the form of infrared light pulses. Each color channel corresponds to a specific wavelength of light, thus achieving parallel transmission of data. Researchers have previously demonstrated that quantum data can be transmitted through standard fiber optic cables, but the entangled state of entangled photons is extremely fragile and susceptible to interference from noise or other signals, leading to decoherence and causing quantum bits to lose their quantum states and data.

To overcome this challenge, Michael Koos' team innovatively used electro-optical phase modulation technology. This technology can precisely adjust the frequency of laser pulses to match the color of entangled photons, thereby achieving parallel transmission of quantum information and traditional data in the same color channel without destroying the quantum information carried by entangled photons. The successful application of this technology not only solves a major problem in quantum information transmission, but also provides valuable practical experience for the construction of the future quantum Internet.

This research achievement means that in the future construction of quantum Internet, we can make full use of the existing optical fiber infrastructure without laying additional dedicated channels, thus greatly reducing the construction cost and time cycle. In addition, with the maturity of parallel transmission technology between quantum information and traditional data, other color channels in fiber optic cables will also be further released, providing possibilities for transmitting more data.

The researchers said that the latest research is an important step in combining the traditional Internet with the quantum Internet, helping to release other color channels in the fiber optic cable and transmit more data. The achievement of Michael Koos' team undoubtedly injects a shot in the arm into the field of quantum communication. It not only promotes the development of quantum Internet technology, but also opens a new way for mankind to explore the unknown world and build a more secure and efficient communication network.

Reference source: Science and Technology Daily