A Time Tagger can be compared to a stopwatch, except that it is several orders of magnitude more accurate. This high-precision stopwatch for electronic signals can be used in various applications requiring accurate time measurements, e.g., in quantum computing and quantum communication. In combination with detectors, the chronometers are used to record the detection time of individual photon events. Developed at Fraunhofer IIS, the Time Tagger was presented in October at the Quantum Effects trade fair in Stuttgart.

Further expansion of the Application Center for Quantum Communication

With a view to anchoring the topic of quantum communication within the research landscape of the Free State of Saxony, the existing application center for the “Design of Scalable Electronic Systems for Quantum Communication” at Fraunhofer IIS/EAS is to be further expanded. The center will provide quantum communication systems that serve as a flexible experimental environment and as a test environment for the development of nanoelectronic circuits. At the same time, the plans envisage a gradual increase in signal transmission distances – expanding out of the local and urban environment in Saxony to reach the neighboring federal states of Bavaria and Thuringia. In the states of Saxony, Bavaria, and Thuringia, supporting initiatives will develop the respective research infrastructure within the framework of application laboratories.

Focus on nanoelectronic components

Above all, the further development of systems for quantum communication focuses on optical components. Likewise, harnessing the potential of cutting-edge nanoelectronic technologies paves the way for designing and miniaturizing versatile systems with significantly better performance. Systems for quantum key distribution have a heterogeneous structure consisting of optical components, optoelectronic converters, and electronic assemblies.

The focus of research in the current project is on nanoelectronic components and particularly on their development with a view to maximum performance, modular and universal applications in multiple variants of quantum key distribution, and the miniaturization of such systems.