Practical aspects of quantum cryptographic key distribution
Performance of various experimental realizations of quantum cryptographic protocols using polarization or phase coding are compared, including a new self-balanced interferometric setup using Faraday mirrors. The importance of detector noise is illustrated and means of reducing it are presented. Maximal distances and bit rates achievable with present day technologies are evaluated. Practical eavesdropping strategies taking advantages of the optical fiber that could open a gate into the transmitter's and receiver's offices are discussed.
key distribution optical fibers quantum cryptography interferometry single photon counting