Research Investigation Directed Toward Extending the Useful Range of the Electromagnetic Spectrum.
Abstract
We have been studying the characteristics of light generated by distinctly non-Poisson processes. We are particularly interested in sub-Poisson light (light whose fluctuations are lower than those of lasers). The use of such quiet light can be beneficial, e.g., it can increase the distance between repeaters in a fiber-optic communications system. As an example of a mechanism for producing such light, we have begun studying a Franck-Hertz apparatus excited by a space-charge-limited electron beam. We have carried out extensive theoretical calculations of the properties of such a source of light and demonstrated that under suitable conditions it can indeed lead to antibunched and sub-Poisson photon emissions. We have also proved a quantum analog of the Burgess variance theorem. This confirmed that the sub-Poisson nature of a light beam is conserved in the presence of absorptive media and additive (Poisson) background light. Thus the sub-Poisson light can be used in a real detection system once it is generated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 31, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA142209
Entities
People
- G. W. Flynn
Organizations
- Columbia University