Quantum key distribution using card, base station and trusted authority

摘要

Techniques and tools for quantum key distribution (“QKD”) between a quantum communication (“QC”) card, base station and trusted authority are described herein. In example implementations, a QC card contains a miniaturized QC transmitter and couples with a base station. The base station provides a network connection with the trusted authority and can also provide electric power to the QC card. When coupled to the base station, after authentication by the trusted authority, the QC card acquires keys through QKD with a trusted authority. The keys can be used to set up secure communication, for authentication, for access control, or for other purposes. The QC card can be implemented as part of a smart phone or other mobile computing device, or the QC card can be used as a fillgun for distribution of the keys.

主权项

1. A quantum communication device comprising:
a connector adapted to couple with a base station for quantum communication with a trusted authority over a network between the base station and the trusted authority, wherein the connector is further adapted to decouple from the base station, the base station and the quantum communication device being separate devices; one or more integrated optics modules adapted to transmit or receive information in a quantum channel as part of the quantum communication through the base station, the one or more integrated optics modules being optically coupled to the connector; and memory for storing one or more keys produced based at least in part on the quantum communication.