NIST researchers have developed a new method for measuring optical power across a wide range of light levels using single-photon detectors. The technique involves calibrating optical attenuators with transition edge sensors (TES) to extend the operating range of photon-counting detectors.
Key points:
– The method allows precise optical power measurements from single photons up to high light levels
– TES detectors provide high precision and can operate across a wide frequency range
– The calibration method doesn’t require external standards or resetting components
– The technique could improve quantum key distribution and biological sample analysis
– The approach enables relative measurements between different detectors and attenuators
The new method could revolutionize optical power measurements by providing a single, precise standard across all light levels, from single photons to high-intensity light. This would greatly simplify calibration and improve accuracy in various applications.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2015/10/measuring-optical-power-single-photon-detectors
Keywords: photon, attenuator, detector, precision, uncertainty
