Multi-Link Switching: Unlimited Scalability with Cost Efficiency
For non-entanglement based QKD, the usual approach for building larger QKD networks with multiple nodes is to use seperate QKD systems for each connection between nodes. While this works well, it can be costly. An entanglement based QKD system overcomes this challenge. The ELVIS Enterprise QKD system allows connecting one ELVIS Quantum Receiver with multiple other nodes via a beam splitter or an active optical switch. This multi-link switching allows the user to:
- Reduce hardware costs as less receivers are required, or
- Use two or more redundant fibers for uninterrupted operation even if one fiber is damaged.
Naturally, the total key rate is shared among all connected receivers. The key advantage of ELVIS Enterprise: sharing comes at virtually no cost – aside from a slight signal loss from the beam splitter or switch. Because ELVIS Enterprise switches between nodes almost instantly, key rates stay consistently high.
Depending on the key rate required, a single ELVIS fiber connection can reach distances of up to 100 km. Longer distances can be covered using one or more trusted nodes in between – each of which must reside in the operator's secured environment – and can be either a full ELVIS Enterprise system or a receiver equipped with a beam splitter or optical switch. A key management system can relay keys across these trusted nodes, creating virtual QKD connections spanning multiple intermediate nodes. This enables scaling to metro, national, and international QKD networks.
Quantum Optics Jena also supports its customers with tools for network planning and analysis.
