Multi-channel Waveform Generator

The NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA has a requirement for the supply of A multi-channel, high-speed waveform generator critical for achieving signal synchronization and processing across multiple quantum network nodes—essential for distributed quantum signal generation and measurement in a networked configuration. NRC Metrology is currently developing a three-node quantum network testbed. The acquisition of this waveform generator enables synchronized signal processing between the nodes and the distribution of entangled photons generated within their coherence time.
The NRC is leading a project to generate three quantum-entangled photons and verify their non-classical correlations using optical interferometers and photon-number-resolving detectors. The process involves local nodes preparing photon pairs using spontaneous parametric down-conversion, where one photon from each pair is sent to a central node. At the central node, the three incoming photons are measured in an entangled basis, generating quantum correlations between the remaining photons at each local node—even though these photons never directly interacted.
Creating a shared three-node entangled state requires simultaneous photon-pair generation at each node, followed by photonic interference at the central node.
To succeed, photons from each node must be synchronized from their creation to their joint measurement at the central node. This requires synchronization of seed lasers (for photon generation) as well as precise alignment of photon arrival times at the central nodes for interference measurements.
NRC has already developed optical and electronic infrastructure optimized for its existing optics and electronics both at central and local node of the network. To ensure synchronization of both quantum and classical signals, the simultaneous operation of optical and electronic devices—controlled by a high-speed, low-noise signal system—is essential.
The waveform generator will enable quantum state generation and measurement across nodes by synchronizing quantum devices both within and between network nodes. Without it, reliable generation of distributed entangled states cannot be achieved.