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Researchers Simplify Quantum Cryptography

Posted by kdawson on from the again-with-the-bob-and-alice dept.

Stony Stevenson writes "Quantum cryptography, the most secure method of transmitting data, has taken a step closer to mainstream viability with a technique that simplifies the distribution of keys. Researchers at NIST claim that the new 'quantum key distribution' method minimizes the required number of detectors, the most costly components in quantum crypto. Four single-photon detectors are usually required (these cost $20K to $50K each) to send and decode cryptography keys. In the new method, the researchers designed an optical component that reduces the required number of detectors to two. (The article mentions that in later refinements to the published work, they have reduced the requirement to one detector.) The researchers concede that their minimum-detector arrangement cuts transmission rates but point out that the system still works at broadband speeds."

3 of 106 comments (clear)

  1. Quantum Post! by Majik+Sheff · · Score: 5, Funny

    Either this post is first or it isn't. I won't know until I press submit.

    --
    Women are like electronics: you don't know how damaged they are until you try to turn them on.
    1. Re:Quantum Post! by FrYGuY101 · · Score: 5, Funny

      Either this post is first or it isn't. I won't know until I press submit. No fair! You changed the outcome by posting it!
      --
      "If we let things terrify us, life will not be worth living."

      - Seneca
  2. Thanks to this new breakthrough... by Ihmhi · · Score: 5, Funny

    ...quantum cryptography now requires 30% less cats and 46% fewer radioactive isotopes.

    --
    Random Thoughts From A Diseased Mind (Not For Dummies)