Robust gigahertz fiber quantum key distribution

We present recent results on an innovative fiber based short wavelength gigahertz clock rate quantum key distribution system operating over a standard telecommunications optical fiber quantum channel. This system is designed to be robust against environmentally induced changes in the polarization evolution of the photons in the optical fiber quantum channel and against path-length drift in the interferometers which could otherwise compromise system performance. Experimental results are presented for error rate, net bit rate and stability for different silicon single-photon avalanche diode detector types. © 2011 American Institute of Physics.