A complete quantum process model for physically realistic photo-detection in the joint photon-number and spectral degrees of freedom
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Photo-detection is a fundamental component of experimental photonics, yet theoretical models often treat detectors solely in the photon-number basis, neglecting other relevant degrees of freedom such as spectral characteristics. We present a complete quantum process model for physically realistic photodetection that incorporates both photon-number effects and frequency-dependent detector response, described through explicitly derived Kraus operators in the operator-sum representation. This formalism accommodates realistic inefficiencies, models detection within finite spectral windows, and can be directly substituted for idealized models in quantum optical analyses. The model leads to identifying the suitable detection window of the detectors relative to the spectral distribution of incident photons and conversely, in order to maximize the observability of quantum effects.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Authors: Rafi, Sadia, Khalique, Aeysha
Institution: National University of Sciences and Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221793655