Quantum Computing: Counting Photons

Researchers at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility have designed a photon detection system that can accurately resolve more than 100 photons, a major step forward in capability for quantum computing development efforts. The system may also enable quantum generation of truly random numbers, a long-sought goal for developing unbreakable encryption techniques for applications in military communications and financial transactions. The team blew past the record of 16 photons and demonstrated a photon count of about 35 per single detector and reached 100 photons with a three-detector system.