The efficient storage and on-demand retrieval of quantum optical states that are compatible with the telecommunications C-band is a requirement for future terrestrial-based quantum optical networking. Spectrum in the C-band minimises optical fiber-propagation losses, and broad optical bandwidth facilitates high-speed networking protocols. Here we report on a telecommunication wavelength and bandwidth compatible quantum memory. Using the Off-Resonant Cascaded Absorption protocol in hot 87Rb vapour, we demonstrate a total memory efficiency of 20.90(1)% with a Doppler-limited storage time of 1.10(2)ns. We characterise the memory performance with weak coherent states, demonstrating signal-to-noise ratios greater than unity for mean photon number inputs above 4.5(6)×10−6 per pulse.
@article{arxiv.2211.04415,
title = {A Single-Photon-compatible Telecom-C-Band Quantum Memory in a Hot Atomic Gas},
author = {S. E. Thomas and S. Sagona-Stophel and Z. Schofield and I. A. Walmsley and P. M. Ledingham},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2211.04415},
year = {2022}
}