Interaction-free all-optical switching via the quantum Zeno effect

Yu Ping Huang, Joseph B. Altepeter, Prem Kumar

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

We propose an interaction-free scheme for all-optical switching which does not rely on the physical coupling between signal and control waves. The interaction-free nature of the scheme allows it to overcome the fundamental photon-loss limit imposed by the signal-pump coupling. The same phenomenon protects photonic-signal states from decoherence, making devices based on this scheme suitable for quantum applications. Focusing on χ(2) waveguides, we provide device designs for traveling-wave and Fabry-Perot switches. In both designs, the performance is optimal when the signal switching is induced by coherent dynamical evolution. In contrast, when the switching is induced by a rapid dissipation channel, it is less efficient.

Original languageEnglish
Article number063826
JournalPhysical Review A - Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
Volume82
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 22 Dec 2010

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