Periodic Reporting for period 1 - NARWHAL (A Quantum System on Chip for equal access to secure communications: a pilot-ready photonic integrated circuit with embedded quantum key distribution functions for high-performance transceivers.)
Berichtszeitraum: 2022-11-01 bis 2023-10-31
The current issue with QKD systems is that they are large and mainly used in government and defense applications. What's missing is a solution that's suitable for everyday use and can be integrated into the networks we rely on, from our homes and offices to cell towers. PhotonIP is addressing this problem by developing a Quantum System on a Chip (QSoC) using low-cost and miniaturized photonic integrated circuits (PICs). This QSoC is designed to work seamlessly with existing networks, making it easy for everyone to adopt.
The unique approach by PhotonIP, focusing on performance, miniaturization, security, and cost-effectiveness, opens exciting possibilities for applying advanced PICs and quantum technology in various areas that can benefit us all.
PhotonIP oversees the entire process, ensuring the delivery of advanced optical engines that align with industry standard specifications, a crucial aspect in the dynamic telecom equipment market. The target customers for the low-power 100G coherent optical engine and the 100G Quantum System on Chip (QSoC) operate within the telecom market, which is anticipated to evolve to include quantum-secure telecom equipment in the future.
In pursuit of these objectives, PhotonIP has developed an exploitation plan with a primary focus on bringing the first prototypes of advanced optical engines to the market. This includes the 100G coherent optical engine initially, positioning it as a standalone product before incorporating CV-QKD functionality into the QSoC product. This strategic approach aims to introduce the 100G coherent optical engine to the market promptly, with the integration of quantum communication capabilities expected to follow in 3 to 5 years, aligning with the evolving market demand for secure quantum communications.