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.

Informations projet

NARWHAL

N° de convention de subvention: 101099230

DOI

10.3030/101099230

Projet clôturé

Date de signature de la CE 26 Octobre 2022

Date de début 1 Novembre 2022

Date de fin 31 Août 2025

Financé au titre de

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Coût total

€ 2 307 188,00

Contribution de l’UE

€ 2 307 188,00

Coordonné par

Photon Bridge B.V.
Netherlands

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.)

Période du rapport: 2022-11-01 au 2023-10-31

Résumé du contexte et des objectifs généraux du projet

Quantum computing poses a serious threat to how we currently secure our data, potentially impacting everyone's access to secure communications. PhotonIP is working on a solution to this challenge by focusing on quantum-key-distribution (QKD) technology. This technology ensures that systems stay secure even in the face of advanced quantum computing capabilities.

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.

Travail effectué depuis le début du projet jusqu’à la fin de la période considérée dans le rapport et principaux résultats atteints jusqu’à présent

In the initial year of the NARWHAL project, PhotonIP has achieved significant milestones in the development of the full Quantum System on a Chip (QSoC). This progress includes the identification of key components, successful implementation and validation of the patented process flow, and the demonstration of rapid turnaround cycles for delivering the demonstrator in the later stages of the project. Following an iterative development process, the project has now entered the concluding phase of the first development cycle, showcasing impressive outcomes at the component level. These components serve as the fundamental building blocks for the ultimate system demonstrator, which constitutes the primary focus for the remaining duration of the project.

Progrès au-delà de l’état des connaissances et impact potentiel prévu (y compris l’impact socio-économique et les conséquences sociétales plus larges du projet jusqu’à présent)

The NARWHAL project led by PhotonIP is a research-intensive initiative introducing groundbreaking innovations with the potential to revolutionize existing telecom component and equipment markets, while also paving the way for new markets in quantum secure network equipment. PhotonIP is actively engaging with key decision-makers and R&D leaders in the telecom transceiver market, showcasing its technology developments to selected stakeholders.

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.