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  • Letter
  • Open Access

Initialization protocol for efficient quantum memories using resolved hyperfine structure

James S. Stuart, Morgan Hedges, Rose Ahlefeldt, and Matthew Sellars*

  • Centre for Quantum Computation and Communications Technology, Research School of Physics, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia

  • *Corresponding author: matthew.sellars@anu.edu.au

Phys. Rev. Research 3, L032054 – Published 27 August, 2021

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevResearch.3.L032054

Abstract

We describe a quantum memory spectral preparation strategy that optimizes memory efficiency and bandwidth in materials such as Er3+167:Y2SiO5 in a high-field regime, where the hyperfine structure is resolved. We demonstrate the method in Er3+167:Y2SiO5 by preparing spectrally isolated 18-dB-absorbing features on a <1 dB background. Using these features we create an atomic frequency comb and show a quantum storage of 200-ns pulses with 22% efficiency, limited by the background absorption which arises from laser instability. We describe the experimental improvements needed to reach the material limits: O(1)-s spin-state storage, O(100)MHz bandwidth, and >90% efficiency.

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