Exploring the limits of multiplexed photon-pair sources for the preparation of pure single-photon states

Understand

Current sources of heralded single photons based on nonlinear optics operate in a probabilistic manner.

• In order to build quantum-enhanced devices based around the use of single photons, compact, turn-key and deterministic sources are required.
• A possible solution is to multiplex a number of sources to increase the single-photon generation probability and in so doing reducing the waiting time to deliver large numbers of photons simultaneously, from independent sources.
• Previously it has been shown that, in the ideal case, 17 multiplexed sources allow deterministic generation of heralded single photons [Christ and Silberhorn, Phys.