Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a method that enables two remote parties to share a secure key string. Clock synchronization between two parties is a crucial step in the normal operation of QKD. Qubit-based synchronization can achieve clock synchronization by transmitting quantum states between two remote parties, eliminating the necessity for hardware synchronization and thereby greatly reducing the hardware requirements of a QKD system. Nonetheless, classical qubit-based synchronization exhibits poor performance in continuous and high-loss systems, hindering its wide applicability in various scenarios. Here, we propose a qubit-based distributed frame synchronization method that can achieve time recovery in a continuously running system and resist higher losses. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms the advanced qubit-based synchronization method Qubit4Sync in a continuously running system. Particularly, the results demonstrate that our method surpasses all previous works in key parameters, including frequency and the synchronization length. We believe our method is applicable to a broad range of QKD scenarios, including drone-based QKD and quantum network construction.
Source: Journal of Lightwave Technology
Authors: Ye Chen, Chunfeng Huang, Guangshen Lin, Shuyi Huang, Zhenrong Zhang, Kejin Wei
Institution: Guangxi University
Language: English
Subfield: Artificial Intelligence
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
Awards: G3893478567, G4493657531, G6236065808
OpenAlex ID: W4402627675