Demonstrating a single-photon switch (IMAGE)
Caption
Using this experimental setup, Purdue University researchers discovered how to create a single-photon switch, which a quantum photonic integrated circuit would need to process information. The researchers shot two lasers through the lens and pinhole of a spatial filter on the left side of this setup to a commercial device called a single-photon avalanche diode, seen on the far right with a green line on its surface. This device allowed a single photon from one light beam to switch on and off another more powerful light beam.
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Purdue University photo/Kevin Crisp
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