Patent ID: 7437081

Claim:
A system for providing quantum key distribution, comprising: a first public data transceiver configured to transmit public data in accordance with a predefined timing sequence; a first optical modulator/demodulator configured to transmit timing signals in accordance with said predefined timing sequence; a first quantum transceiver configured to transmit quantum signals in accordance with said predefined timing sequence; a first controller operably connected to said first public data transceiver, said first optical modulator/demodulator, and said first quantum transceiver, said first controller being configured to control the transmission of said public data, said timing signals, and said quantum signals in accordance with said predefined timing sequence; and wherein said predefined timing sequence further comprises: a) a first predefined timing slot in which public data, quantum signals and timing signals are transmitted and wherein the quantum and timing signals so transmitted are ultimately discarded; b) a flush period in which no public data is transmitted; and c) a second predefined timing slot in which only quantum signals and timing signals are transmitted.