Based on the pioneering research work of Nobel Prize winner Professor Anton Zeilinger, the AIT was able to develop concrete applications and technologies in the field of quantum communication together with him at a very early stage. As a result, the AIT is now considered a specialist in both terrestrial and satellite-based quantum cryptography. Against this background, the work of the quantum researchers focuses in particular on the miniaturization of the devices required for quantum cryptography (QKD) and on the establishment of a European quantum communication network within the framework of the EuroQCI initiative.
At it-sa, AIT will present a compact quantum random number generator that generates random numbers at a speed of 2 Mbps. The randomness is based on quantum mechanical effects and therefore cannot be calculated. This method makes it possible to significantly strengthen even today's existing encryption algorithms. In addition, AIT will present a miniaturized QKD transmitter. This consists of a photonically integrated chip that carries all components such as lasers, modulators and attenuators. The special feature of the transmitter is that it generates quantum cryptographically secured keys at a rate of 1kbit/s over a distance of 30km, thus enabling absolutely tap-proof communication. Further information: https://quantum.ait.ac.at/
