High-Efficiency, Ultrafast Photon-Number Statistics from Phase-Averaged Homodyne Detection
Coherence and Quantum Optics VII, 1996
The measurement of photon-number statistics is an essential element of quantum optics. Neverthele... more The measurement of photon-number statistics is an essential element of quantum optics. Nevertheless, conventional techniques are limited in their ability to measure the photon-count distribution p(n) with high quantum efficiency (QE), high number resolution, and high spatial-temporal resolution. The present work reviews a recently developed technique --phase-averaged homodyne detection -- which can provide a nearly ideal method for measuring photon statistics.[1] Its QE can approach 100%, while maintaining high number resolution (can distinguish between p(n) and p(n +1)), as well as sub-picosecond temporal resolution and single-mode spatial discrimination. In addition, it provides simultaneous temporal and spectral resolution. [2]
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Papers by Michael Raymer