In the Field of Quantum Technologies

Abstract

Quantum technologies are an emerging field one can think of in two categories. The first generation, which used principles of quantum physics to deliver technologies of the last century, and the second generation, which harnesses quantum phenomena to achieve novel device functionalities in the current century. In general, various sophisticated tools for the control and manipulation of quantum states are required and under development, fundamental concepts based on nonclassical behaviour or properties are used, or new capabilities are enabled which would have been out of reach for classical devices. Indeed, the role of semiconductor photonics as well as quantum structures is pronounced. In this chapter, two aspects of work in the field of quantum technologies are summarised. The first part will deal with coherent light sources, ranging from semiconductor lasers to novel sources of coherent light. The second part provides an introduction into quantum optics based on quantum light generation and tailored light–matter coupling. Serving as a starting point, here given examples shall motivate further reading in the dedicated literature on these subjects.