About QCV
QCV is the premier facility for Quantum Communication technology in Australia and is located in the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne.
Quantum Communications Victoria (QCV) is a Victorian Government Industry Development Initiative with a focus on developing quantum technology that will enable absolute secure communication. Its research and commercialisation capabilities are those of its Core Partners – The University of Melbourne, MagiQ Technologies Inc., Silicon Graphics Inc., and Qucor Pty Ltd.Its key activities are to:
- develop a world class facility for the design and manufacture of secure quantum communication devices;
- build a strong domestic knowledge base in the field of quantum communications technology;
- strengthen the education and research infrastructure in quantum communication technology;
- attract investment.
The technology being prototyped by QCV will enable absolute secure communication using the quantum properties of light. QCV is developing a device capable of producing single packets of light (photons) which can be transmitted in optical fibre. Such a device will resolve the existing issues of single photon generation in current quantum communication systems.
The QCV device is a diamond-based single photon source suitable for optical fiber based quantum communications. Diamond is the only material capable of room-temperature operation. In this scheme, microscopic crystals of diamond are grown directly onto the tips of optical fibers, allowing the single photons emitted from the diamond crystals to be channeled directly into the fiber. The result is a robustly packaged, miniaturized and room temperature stable single photon source.
QCV's Vision
Firstly, to assist Victorian industry to understand the implications of Quantum Communications
Secondly, to enable them to participate and benefit from their involvement in the manufacture and use of critical components associated with a diamond-based single photon source.
Facilities
The QCV research infrastructure is supported by the School of Physics at The University of Melbourne. QCV has set up several key laboratory/product development facilities with a specific focus on device fabrication, single photon source characterization and photonic device packaging. This includes a:
- Silicon Graphics Altix 3700 Supercomputer
- MagiQ QPN™ Security Gateway Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) System
- Photonics Development Laboratory
- Quantum Characterisation Laboratory
- Diamond Fabrication Laboratory
STI Funding
QCV is a Victorian Government Industry Development Initiative and is supported by the Office of Science and Technology via its Science, Technology and Innovation funding (Round 3).
QCV - Who We Are & What We Do
A short (6:40m) promotional film highlighting QCV's expertise, facilities, research goals & staff.
Contact us
The QCV offices and facilities are located with the School of Physics at The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
