We propose a hybrid (continuous-discrete variable) quantum repeater protocol for distribution of entanglement over long distances. Starting from entangled states created by means of single-photon detection, we show how entangled coherent state superpositions, also known as `Schr\"odinger cat states', can be generated by means of homodyne detection of light. We show that near-deterministic entanglement swapping with such states is possible using only linear optics and homodyne detectors, and we evaluate the performance of our protocol combining these elements.
@article{arxiv.1004.0083,
title = {A Hybrid Long-Distance Entanglement Distribution Protocol},
author = {Jonatan B. Brask and Ioannes Rigas and Eugene S. Polzik and Ulrik L. Andersen and Anders S. Sorensen},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1004.0083},
year = {2015}
}