title: Managing photons for quantum information processing.
abstract: We study distinguishing information in the context of photonic quantum interference tailored for practical implementations of quantum information processing schemes. In particular, we consider the character of single-photon states optimized for multiple-source interference experiments and for experiments relying on Bell-state measurement and arrive at specific design criteria for photons produced by parametric down-conversion. Such states can be realistically implemented with available technology. We describe a novel method for characterizing the mode structure of single photons, and demonstrate it in the context of coherent light.
authors.affiliation: Clarendon Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PU, UK.
authors.forename: Alfred B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: U'Ren
authors.forename: Eran
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Mukamel
authors.forename: Konrad
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Banaszek
authors.forename: Ian A
authors.initials: IA
authors.lastname: Walmsley