Feasibility study for handheld quantum key distribution

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Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a cryptographic scheme which provides an unprecedented level of data security. Thiscan be used to prevent data breaches such as ATM 'Skimming' attacks. Our project seeks to develop practical applicationof QKD in securing short-range wireless communication between a terminal such as an ATM and a handheld device (e.g.mobile phone). Our consortium, Nokia R&D UK Ltd., Alpha Contract Engineering (ACE) and University of Oxford haveidentified the 3 main barriers to commercialisation, namely, the lack of low-cost optical wireless steering techniques, highcost barrier to complex optical assembly for quantum receivers and the lack of mass-manufacturable single photon detector(SPD) arrays on CMOS platform. A fast and precise optical steering device (University of Oxford) that directs singlephotons from a handheld device to a quantum receiver will be developed. Testing of individual system components will becarried out. In particular, miniaturised and simplified optical assemblies using existing UK manufacturing capability will beresearched, built and tested for QKD use (ACE). Critical parameters of SPD arrays on scalable CMOS platform will bemeasured (University of Oxford) and used in detailed simulation and modelling to select the best suited steering method.Finally, a prototype wireless quantum link will be built (Nokia & University of Oxford) with simplified optics (ACE) todemonstrate the feasibility of secure quantum wireless transactions.