Multifunctional on-chip storage at telecommunication wavelength for quantum networks

Abstract

Quantum networks will enable a variety of applications, from secure communication and precision measurements to distributed quantum computing. Storing photonic qubits and controlling their frequency, bandwidth, and retrieval time are important functionalities in future optical quantum networks. Here we demonstrate these functions using an ensemble of erbium ions in yttrium orthosilicate coupled to a silicon photonic resonator and controlled via on-chip electrodes. Light in the telecommunication C-band is stored, manipulated, and retrieved using a dynamic atomic frequency comb protocol controlled by linear DC Stark shifts of the ion ensemble's transition frequencies. We demonstrate memory time control in a digital fashion in increments of 50 ns, frequency shifting by more than a pulse width (±39MHz), and a bandwidth increase by a factor of 3, from 6 to 18 MHz. Using on-chip electrodes, electric fields as high as 3 kV/cm were achieved with a low applied bias of 5 V, making this an appealing platform for rare-earth ions, which experience Stark shifts of the order of 10 kHz/(V/cm).

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