Near infrared integrated photonic switches for portable quantum sensors

Bruce Saleeb-Mousa,Campion Richard P,Christopher J Mellor,James L Moss,Jessica O Maclean

doi:10.1088/1742-6596/1919/1/012007

Bruce Saleeb-Mousa, Campion Richard P + Show 3 more

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https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/1919/1/012007

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Abstract

A novel integrated semiconductor photonic switch, based on carrier-induced refractive index changes, has been designed and fabricated for use at near infrared wavelengths (890-920 nm, 750-780 nm and 745-775 nm). These switches are intended for use in quantum sensors which rely on the spectroscopy of caesium, rubidium or potassium atoms respectively. The beam-steering properties of the 890-920 nm device are presented and its extinction ratio measured to be 13.4 dB. This measurement was limited by coupling efficiency. Subsequent changes made to the testing equipment include the implementation of an automated testing routine. This new experimental setup will facilitate the full characterisation of the 890-920 nm device and the newly fabricated optical switches, designed for operation in the wavelength ranges 750-780 nm and 745-775 nm respectively.

Highlights

A novel integrated semiconductor photonic switch, based on carrier-induced refractive index changes, has been designed and fabricated for use at near infrared wavelengths (890-920 nm, 750-780 nm and 745-775 nm). These switches are intended for use in quantum sensors which rely on the spectroscopy of caesium, rubidium or potassium atoms respectively
This new experimental setup will facilitate the full characterisation of the 890-920 nm device and the newly fabricated optical switches, designed for operation in the wavelength ranges 750-780 nm and 745-775 nm respectively
Wave-particle duality underpins the behaviour of cold atomic matter, opening up the possibility of performing atom interferometry

Summary

Introduction

Wave-particle duality underpins the behaviour of cold atomic matter, opening up the possibility of performing atom interferometry Such experiments have proven to be a powerful method of precision inertial sensing [1]. Recent research and investment in the field of quantum sensing and metrology in the UK [7], and around the world, has brought about a need for compact, integrated enabling technologies, with the aim of converting the generation of quantum sensors from laboratory-based experiments to innovative and marketable products This has led to an enhanced drive to develop these mainly laboratory-based systems towards more compact, low power, and portable equivalents [8].

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