Fisher information analysis on weak-value-amplification metrology using optical coherent states

Abstract

The weak-value-amplification (WVA) technique has been extensively considered and debated in the field of quantum precision measurement, largely owing to the reduced Fisher information caused by the low probability of successful postselection. In this work we show that, rather than the transverse-spatial-wave-function meter typically considered, using the optical coherent state as a meter, the WVA measurement can outperform the conventional measurement not involving the strategy of postselection. We also show that the postselection procedure involved in the WVA scheme can make a mixture of coherent states work better than a pure coherent state with identical average photon numbers. This is in contrast to the main result proved in the absence of postselection. The postselection strategy can also result in the precision of Heisenberg scaling with the photon numbers without using expensive quantum resources. The present work may stimulate further interest in postselection strategy for quantum precision measurements.