Abstract
In continuous-variable quantum key distribution, the loss and excess noise of the quantum channel are key parameters that determine the secure key rate and the maximal distribution distance. We investigate the imperfect quantum state preparation in Gaussian modulation coherent-state protocol both theoretically and experimentally. We show that the Gaussian distribution characteristic of the prepared states in phase space is broken due to the incorrect calibration of the working parameters for the amplitude modulator and phase modulator. This further causes a significant increase of the excess noise and misestimate of the channel loss. To ensure an accurate estimate of the quantum channel parameters and achieve a reliable quantum key distribution, we propose and demonstrate two effective schemes to calibrate the working parameters of the modulators.
- Received 11 July 2017
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.96.042312
©2017 American Physical Society