Generation of Large Photon-Number Cat States using Linear Optics and Quantum Memory

Abstract

A recursive method for producing path-entangled states of light is presented. These states may find applications in quantum lithography and high-precision interferometric measurements. The required resources are single-photon sources, linear optics components, and photodetectors. Adding a quantum memory greatly enhances the yield in comparison with the previously known schemes.

4 pages, to appear in the Proceedings of the Sixth International Conference on Quantum Communication, Measurement and Computing (QCMC'02), Boston, July 22-26, 2002