| EPSRC Reference: |
EP/M508366/1 |
| Title: |
Feasibility study for handheld quantum key distribution |
| Principal Investigator: |
O'Brien, Professor D |
| Other Investigators: |
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| Department: |
Engineering Science |
| Organisation: |
University of Oxford |
| Scheme: |
Technology Programme |
| Starts: |
01 May 2015 |
Ends: |
30 April 2016 |
Value (£): |
123,968
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| EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a cryptographic scheme which provides an unprecedented level of data security. This
can be used to prevent data breaches such as ATM 'Skimming' attacks. Our project seeks to develop practical application
of QKD in securing short-range wireless communication between a terminal such as an ATM and a handheld device (e.g.
mobile phone). Our consortium, Nokia R&D UK Ltd., Alpha Contract Engineering (ACE) and University of Oxford have
identified the 3 main barriers to commercialisation, namely, the lack of low-cost optical wireless steering techniques, high
cost barrier to complex optical assembly for quantum receivers and the lack of mass-manufacturable single photon detector
(SPD) arrays on CMOS platform. A fast and precise optical steering device (University of Oxford) that directs single
photons from a handheld device to a quantum receiver will be developed. Testing of individual system components will be
carried out. In particular, miniaturised and simplified optical assemblies using existing UK manufacturing capability will be
researched, built and tested for QKD use (ACE). Critical parameters of SPD arrays on scalable CMOS platform will be
measured (University of Oxford) and used in detailed simulation and modelling to select the best suited steering method.
Finally, a prototype wireless quantum link will be built (Nokia & University of Oxford) with simplified optics (ACE) to
demonstrate the feasibility of secure quantum wireless transactions.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
| Summary |
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| Date Materialised |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.ox.ac.uk |