arXiv · 2511.19128
Dispersive detection of single microwave photons with quantum dots
Abstract
Within a circuit quantum electrodynamics architecture, we theoretically investigate the detection of a single propagating microwave photon traveling through a resonant microwave cavity dispersively interacting with a double quantum dot tunnel-coupled to a lead. Under suitable conditions, a single photon in the cavity can induce a measurable change in the electronic occupation of the charge states. We develop a quantum cascade approach that enables a time-resolved description of a single-photon wave packet impinging on the cavity. We make use of a simple model of charge detector to assess the efficiency of our photo-detection configuration as functions of key parameters such as coupling strength, tunneling rate, temperature, and photon resonance linewidth. We finally highlight a measurement-induced backaction effect on the cavity mode associated with the dispersive, non-absorptive detection process.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Stephanie Matern, Alberto Biella, Pasquale Scarlino, Iacopo Carusotto, Gianluca Rastelli. 2025-11-24. Dispersive detection of single microwave photons with quantum dots. https://doi.org/10.1103/4dmz-t4c3
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.