Binary quantum receiver concept demonstration

An experimental demonstration of a quantum-optimal receiver for optical binary signals, developed as a joint effort by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute if Technology, is described in this article. A brief summary of the classical, quantum-optimal, and quantum near optimal solutions to detecting binary signals is first presented. The components and experimental setup used to implement the receivers is then discussed. Experimental performance and results for both optimal and near-optimal receivers are presented and compared to theoretical limits. Finally, experimental shortcomings are discussed along with possible solutions and future direction.