arXiv subjects

Gustavo Lima

Publications and source records attributed to Gustavo Lima.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

An optical-fibre-integrated buffer for packet-switched quantum networks

Packet-switched quantum networks require buffers that can delay qubit payloads while routing information is read out in real time. Previous approaches have not provided this functionality in a fully fibre-integrated architecture compatible with telecom infrastructure. Here we demonstrate an optical-fibre-integrated buffer, based on a recirculating loop and a fibre storage line, in which the storage time of a polarisation-encoded qubit payload is determined by readout of an attached packet header. The key component behind this achievement is an ultra-low-loss poled fibre phase modulator, which provides fast, polarisation-insensitive switching directly in fibre and allows header and payload to be processed within the buffer. We demonstrate storage and retrieval of polarisation-encoded qubit payloads for storage times up to 47 $\mu$s, with an average quantum bit error rate of 1.8% together with stable operation over several hours. These results establish a practical fibre-based architecture for packet-level quantum network buffering that can easily integrate into the current telecommunication infrastructure opening up new paths for deployment of the quantum internet.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2026

Poled-fibre phase modulator for efficient high-dimensional quantum measurements

Efficient detection of quantum states underpins advanced device-independent quantum-information protocols that provide the ultimate level of security for tasks including quantum random number generation and quantum key distribution (QKD). High-dimensional encoding is a natural route to boost the performance of such protocols, offering enhanced noise resilience and higher information capacity, yet their practical implementation remains challenging. A key experimental bottleneck in higher dimensions is the typical need of active modulators for basis selection, which incur substantial optical losses and polarization-sensitive operation. Poled optical fiber phase modulators (PFPMs) are a fiber-native electro-optic technology that naturally addresses these challenges, combining sub-dB insertion loss, intrinsic polarization independence, and direct compatibility with standard telecommunications fiber. Here we report the first use of a PFPM for active quantum-state measurements in a fully fiber-integrated platform. Basis selection in our receiver for four-dimensional qudits is achieved using a single PFPM, substantially simplifying the receiver architecture. As a benchmark, we perform a four-dimensional QKD session and obtain a finite secret-key rate per pulse that, to the best of our knowledge, surpasses all previously reported QKD demonstrations. Our results establish poled-fiber electro-optic modulation as a broadly applicable platform for high-efficiency detection in fiber-integrated quantum information processing.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2026

Optimal Interaction Free Localization with Multipath Interferometers

Interaction-free measurement (IFM) certifies the presence of an absorbing object without a photon ever being absorbed by it. When several candidate locations are available, existing protocols can also identify which one holds the absorber, but they do so by testing paths sequentially through two-path interferometers, resolving a binary presence question at each step. We propose a different approach: probing all candidate locations at once, with the photon prepared in a coherent superposition across every path before a single measurement resolves the outcome. We prove that a three-stage protocol built on a $d$-path interferometer attains the exact one-shot optimum for this task, and we extend it to $k$ absorbers among $d$ paths, where the no-absorption branch encodes the entire absorber subset coherently rather than revealing individual locations one by one. The dark port therefore ceases to be a mere witness of presence and becomes a location-resolving signal. We then move beyond single-pass strategies using the quantum-comb formalism, casting the problem as an exact optimization over all multi-pass strategies and showing that adaptive protocols surpass the one-shot ceiling. Enriching the interferometer geometry with one additional path guaranteed to be empty, we show that sequential scanning, bright-port recycling, and Zeno-type interrogation all become particular feasible strategies within this same optimization, rather than separate benchmarks to compare against. This unified formulation identifies the optimal interaction-free localization strategy for any given set of resources, opening a route toward loss-resilient quantum imaging protocols for the study of fragile, absorption-sensitive samples.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2025

Benchmarking weak randomness in Quantum and Natural Sources

Private randomness is a fundamental resource for cryptography, security proofs, and information processing. Quantum devices offer a unique advantage by amplifying weak randomness sources in regimes unattainable by classical means. A central theoretical model for such sources is the Santha-Vazirani (SV) model, yet identifying natural processes that satisfy this model remains a major challenge. Here we take three steps toward addressing this problem. First, we introduce an axiomatic framework for quantifying weak randomness, providing a unified basis for estimating an SV-type source. Second, we develop SVTest, a general-purpose software tool for estimating the SV parameter of an arbitrary data sequence. Third, we apply this framework to both engineered and natural sources. Using data from a self-certifying commercial quantum random number generator with guaranteed min-entropy as a benchmark, we validate the accuracy and limitations of our estimation method. We then analyze geophysical signals associated with seismic activity and find that, depending on the discretization, both earthquakes and local seismic noise can exhibit SV-type randomness. Our results indicate that geophysical phenomena may constitute viable sources of cryptographic randomness, establishing an unexpected connection between quantum information theory and geophysics.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2024

A new architecture for high speed core-selective switch for multicore fibers

The use of multicore optical fibers is now recognized as one of the most promising methods to implement the space-division multiplexing techniques required to overcome the impending capacity limit of conventional single-mode optical fibers. Nonetheless, new devices for networking operations compatible with these fibers will be required in order to implement the next-generation high-capacity optical networks. In this work, we develop a new architecture to build a high-speed core-selective switch, critical for efficiently distributing signals over the network. The device relies on multicore interference, and can change among outputs in less than 0.7 us, while achieving less than -18 dB of average inter-core crosstalk, making it compatible with a wide range of network switching tasks. The functionality of the device was demonstrated by routing a 1GBs optical signal and by successfully switching signals over a field-installed multicore fiber network. Our results demonstrate for the first time the operation of a multicore optical fiber switch functioning under real-world conditions, with switching speeds that are three orders of magnitude faster than current commercial devices. This new optical switch design is also fully compatible with standard multiplexing techniques and, thus, represents an important achievement towards the integration of high-capacity multicore telecommunication networks.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2023

Transmission of optical communication signals through ring core fiber using perfect vortex beams

Orbital angular momentum can be used to implement high capacity data transmission systems that can be applied for classical and quantum communications. Here we experimentally study the generation and transmission properties of the so-called perfect vortex beams and the Laguerre-Gaussian beams in ring-core optical fibers. Our results show that when using a single preparation stage, the perfect vortex beams present less ring-radius variation that allows coupling of higher optical power into a ring core fiber. These results lead to lower power requirements to establish fiber-based communications links using orbital angular momentum and set the stage for future implementations of high-dimensional quantum communication over space division multiplexing fibers.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2023

Non-Markovianity in High-Dimensional Open Quantum Systems using Next-generation Multicore Optical Fibers

With the advent of quantum technology, the interest in communication tasks assisted by quantum systems has increased both in academia and industry. Nonetheless, the transmission of a quantum state in real-world scenarios is bounded by environmental noise, so that the quantum channel is an open quantum system. In this work, we study a high-dimensional open quantum system in a multicore optical fiber by characterizing the environmental interaction as quantum operations corresponding to probabilistic phase-flips. The experimental platform is currently state-of-the-art for quantum information processing with multicore fibers. At a given evolution stage we observe a non-Markovian behaviour of the system, which is demonstrated through a proof-of-principle implementation of the Quantum Vault protocol. A better understanding of phase-noise in multicore fibers will improve several real-world communication protocols, since they are a prime candidate to be adopted in future telecom networks.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2023

All-in-fiber dynamic orbital angular momentum mode sorting

The orbital angular momentum (OAM) spatial degree of freedom of light has been widely explored in many applications, including telecommunications, quantum information and light-based micro-manipulation. The ability to separate and distinguish between the different transverse spatial modes is called mode sorting or mode demultiplexing, and it is essential to recover the encoded information in such applications. An ideal $d$ mode sorter should be able to faithfully distinguish between the different $d$ spatial modes, with minimal losses, have $d$ outputs, and have fast response times. All previous mode sorters rely on bulk optical elements such as spatial light modulators, which cannot be quickly tuned and have additional losses if they are to be integrated with optical fiber systems. Here we propose and experimentally demonstrate, to the best of our knowledge, the first all-in-fiber method for OAM mode sorting with ultra-fast dynamic reconfigurability. Our scheme first decomposes the OAM mode in fiber-optical linearly polarized (LP) modes, and then interferometrically recombines them to determine the topological charge, thus correctly sorting the OAM mode. In addition, our setup can also be used to perform ultra-fast routing of the OAM modes. These results show a novel and fiber integrated form of optical spatial mode sorting that can be readily used for many new applications in classical and quantum information processing.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2022

Quantum random number generation based on a perovskite light emitting diode

The recent development of perovskite light emitting diodes (PeLEDs) has the potential to revolutionize the fields of optical communication and lighting devices, due to their simplicity of fabrication and outstanding optical properties. Here we demonstrate, for the first time, that PeLEDs can also be used in the field of quantum technologies by demonstrating a highly-secure quantum random number generator (QRNG). Modern QRNGs that certify their privacy are posed to replace widely adopted pseudo and true classical random number generators in applications such as encryption and gambling, and therefore, need to be cheap, fast and with integration capabilities. Using a compact metal-halide PeLED source, we generate random numbers, which are certified to be secure against an eavesdropper, following the quantum measurement-device-independent scenario. The obtained random number generation rate of more than 10 Mbit s$^{-1}$, which is already comparable to actual commercial devices, shows that PeLEDs can work as high-quality light sources for quantum information tasks, thus paving the way for future developments of quantum technologies. Lastly, we argue that the simpler PeLED manufacturing process, when comparing to solid-state devices, may have large environmental impacts when quantum technology systems become more mass produced, due to the possible lower carbon footprint.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2022

Experimental quantum state discrimination using the optimal fixed rate of inconclusive outcomes strategy

The problem of non-orthogonal state discrimination underlies crucial quantum information tasks, such as cryptography and computing protocols. Therefore, it is decisive to find optimal scenarios for discrimination among quantum states. We experimentally investigate the strategy for the optimal discrimination of two non-orthogonal states considering a fixed rate of inconclusive outcomes (FRIO). The main advantage of the FRIO strategy is to interpolate between unambiguous and minimum error discrimination by solely adjusting the rate of inconclusive outcomes. We present a versatile experimental scheme that performs the optimal FRIO measurement for any pair of generated non-orthogonal states with arbitrary a priori probabilities and for any fixed rate of inconclusive outcomes. Considering different values of the free parameters in the FRIO protocol, we implement it upon qubit states encoded in the polarization mode of single photons generated in the spontaneous parametric down-conversion process. Moreover, we resort to a newfangled double-path Sagnac interferometer to perform a three-outcome non-projective measurement required for the discrimination task, showing excellent agreement with the theoretical prediction. This experiment provides a practical toolbox for a wide range of quantum state discrimination strategies using the FRIO scheme, which can greatly benefit quantum information applications and fundamental studies in quantum theory.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2022

Certification of a Nonprojective Qudit Measurement using Multiport Beamsplitters

Generalised quantum measurements go beyond the textbook concept of a projection onto an orthonormal basis in Hilbert space. They are not only of fundamental relevance but have also an important role in quantum information tasks. However, it is highly demanding to certify that a generalised measurement is indeed required to explain the results of a quantum experiment in which only the degrees of freedom are assumed to be known. Here, we use state-of-the-art multicore optical fiber technology to build multiport beamsplitters and faithfully implement a seven-outcome generalised measurement in a four-dimensional Hilbert space with a fidelity of $99.7\%$. We apply it to perform an elementary quantum communication task and demonstrate a success rate that cannot be simulated in any conceivable quantum protocol based on standard projective measurements on quantum messages of the same dimension. Our approach, which is compatible with modern photonic platforms, showcases an avenue for faithful and high-quality implementation of genuinely nonprojective quantum measurements beyond qubit systems.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2021

Computational advantage from quantum superposition of multiple temporal orders of photonic gates

Models for quantum computation with circuit connections subject to the quantum superposition principle have been recently proposed. There, a control quantum system can coherently determine the order in which a target quantum system undergoes $N$ gate operations. This process, known as the quantum $N$-switch, is a resource for several information-processing tasks. In particular, it provides a computational advantage -- over fixed-gate-order quantum circuits -- for phase-estimation problems involving $N$ unknown unitary gates. However, the corresponding algorithm requires an experimentally unfeasible target-system dimension (super)exponential in $N$. Here, we introduce a promise problem for which the quantum $N$-switch gives an equivalent computational speed-up with target-system dimension as small as 2 regardless of $N$. We use state-of-the-art multi-core optical-fiber technology to experimentally demonstrate the quantum $N$-switch with $N=4$ gates acting on a photonic-polarization qubit. This is the first observation of a quantum superposition of more than $N=2$ temporal orders, demonstrating its usefulness for efficient phase-estimation.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2021

Optimal conditions for multiplexing information into ring-core optical fibers

In optical communications, space-division multiplexing is a promising strategy to augment the fiber network capacity. It relies on modern fiber designs that support the propagation of multiple spatial modes. One of these fibers, the ring-core fiber (RCF), is able to propagate modes that carry orbital angular momentum (OAM), and has been shown to enhance not only classical, but also quantum communication systems. Typically, the RCF spatial modes are used as orthogonal transmission channels for data streams that are coupled into the fiber using different Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) beams. Here, we study the optimal conditions to multiplex information into ring-core fibers in this scheme. We determine which are the most relevant LG beams to be considered, and how their coupling efficiency can be maximized by properly adjusting the beam width with respect to the fiber parameters. Our results show that the coupling efficiency depends upon the OAM value, and that this can limit the achievable transmission rates. In this regard, we show that LG beams are not the optimal choice to couple information into RCF. Rather, another class of OAM-carrying beam, the perfect vortex beam, allows for nearly perfect coupling efficiencies for all spatial modes supported by these fibers.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2020

Quantum randomness protected against detection loophole attacks

Device and semi-device independent quantum randomness generators (DI- and SDI-QRNGs) are crucial for applications requiring private randomness. However, they are vulnerable to detection inefficiency attacks and this limits severely their usage for practical purposes. Here, we present a method for protecting SDI-QRNGs in prepare-and-measure scenarios against detection inefficiency attacks. The key idea is the introduction of a blocking device that adds failures in the communication between the preparation and measurement devices. We prove that, for any detection efficiency, there is a blocking rate that provides protection against these attacks. We experimentally demonstrate the generation of private randomness using weak coherent states and standard avalanche photo-detectors.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2020

Boosting entanglement generation in down-conversion with incoherent illumination

Entangled photons produced by spontaneous parametric down-conversion have been of paramount importance for our current understanding of quantum mechanics and advances in quantum information. In this process, the quantum correlations of the down-converted photons are governed by the optical properties of the pump beam illuminating the non-linear crystal. Extensively, the pump beam has been modeled by either coherent beams or by the well-know Gaussian-Schell model, which leads to the natural conclusion that a high degree of optical coherence is required for the generation of highly entangled states. Here, we show that when a novel class of partially coherent Gaussian pump beams is considered, a distinct type of quantum state can be generated for which the amount of entanglement increases inversely with the degree of coherence of the pump beam. This leads to highly incoherent yet highly entangled multi-photon states, which should have interesting consequences for photonic quantum information science.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2020

Self-testing mutually unbiased bases in higher dimensions with space-division multiplexing optical fiber technology

In the device-independent quantum information approach, the implementation of a given task can be self-tested solely from the recorded statistics and without detailed models for the employed devices. Even though experimentally demanding, it provides appealing verification schemes for advanced quantum technologies that naturally fulfil the associated requirements. In this work, we experimentally study whether self-testing protocols can be adopted to certify the proper functioning of new quantum devices built with modern space-division multiplexing optical fiber technology. Specifically, we consider the prepare-and-measure protocol of M.~Farkas and J.~Kaniewski (Phys.~Rev.~A 99, 032316) for self-testing measurements corresponding to mutually unbiased bases (MUBs) in a dimension $d>2$. In our scheme, the state preparation and measurement stages are implemented with a multi-arm interferometer built with new multi-core optical fibers and related components. Due to the high-overlap of the interferometer's optical modes achieved with this technology, we are able to reach the required visibilities for self-testing the implementation of two four-dimensional MUBs. We also quantify two operational quantities of the measurements: (i) the incompatibility robustness, connected to Bell violations, and (ii) the randomness extractable from the outcomes. Since MUBs lie at the core of several quantum information protocols, our results are of practical interest for future quantum works relying on space-division multiplexing optical fibers.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2020

Minimum optical depth multiport interferometers for approximating arbitrary unitary operations and pure states

Reconfigurable devices which can implement arbitrary unitary operations are crucial for photonic quantum computation, optical neural networks, and boson sampling. Here, we address the problem of, using multiport interferometers, approximating with a given infidelity any pure state preparation and any unitary operation. By means of numerical calculations, we show that pure states, in any dimension $d$, can be prepared with infidelity $\le 10^{-15}$ with three layers of $d$ dimensional Fourier transforms and three layers of configurable phase shifters. We also present numerical evidence that $d+1$ layers of $d$-dimensional Fourier transforms and $d+2$ layers of configurable phase shifters can produce any unitary operation with infidelity $\le 10^{-14}$. The conclusions are achieved by numerical simulations in the range from $d = 3$ to $d=10$. These results are interesting in light of the recent availability of multicore fiber-integrated multiport interferometers.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2020

Quantum information processing with space-division multiplexing optical fibres

The optical fibre is an essential tool for our communication infrastructure since it is the main transmission channel for optical communications. The latest major advance in optical fibre technology is spatial division multiplexing (SDM), where new fibre designs and components establish multiple co-existing data channels based on light propagation over distinct transverse optical modes. Simultaneously, there have been many recent developments in the field of quantum information processing (QIP), with novel protocols and devices in areas such as computing, communication and metrology. Here, we review recent works implementing QIP protocols with SDM optical fibres, and discuss new possibilities for manipulating quantum systems based on this technology.

quant-ph↗