Sparrow
Core
Deterministic
single-photon source
single-photon source
Explore
The leading chip for generating single photons on demand.
Sparrow Core is a high-performance single-photon source, leveraging quantum dots. It delivers best-in-class efficiency, exceptional stability, and reliable performance over extended operation and through multiple thermal cycles.
Efficiency
>50%
How many photons are emitted into a Gaussian output mode.
Indistinguishability
>97%
How identical two photons are, even when emitted at very different times.
Purity
>99%
How well the source avoids emitting multiple photons at the same time.
Optimised for free-space experimental setups, Sparrow Core enables seamless integration with photonic foundry PIC technology.
Explore the architecture
of Sparrow Core
Application
Free-Space Optical Setup
Sparrow Core is designed for seamless integration into customisable free-space optical setups, enabling high-efficiency photon excitation and collection. (Note: External components for connection to a 4K cryostat are required.)
Chip
Compact & Modular
The 3 x 3mm semiconductor chip streamlines quantum photonic operations, simplifies system integration, and enables seamless modular upgrades.
Structure
Single-Photon Source
Within each structure are several quantum dots with unique properties. We always identify and characterise multiple quantum dots that meet the desired specifications while giving end-users the flexibility to explore others for alternative setups or different experimental configurations.
PCB
Electrical Access
The external connectors on the PCB provide straightforward voltage control, ensuring seamless electrical access to the chip to enable spectral tuning and minimise electrical noise. This acts as the foundational layer, interfacing the chip with external control systems.
Device array
Hundreds of Structures
The chip contains hundreds of structures, each featuring several quantum dots embedded in a photonic crystal waveguide.
Design
Planar Advantages
A planar design enables stability, scalability, and functionality. The planar waveguide approach features the separation of in- and out-coupling to effectively filter the pump laser from the emitted photons, offering precise and efficient photon management.
A Closer Look at The Source:
Features and Benefits
Electric field
Ultra-low noise environment
By applying a controlled electric field, we achieve an ultra-low noise environment, ensuring the highest fidelity in single-photon generation.
Wavelength
920–980nm wavelength
Advanced quantum dot engineering enables wavelength tuning across a range of 920 nm to 980 nm, providing flexibility for various applications.
Conversion
Telecom wavelength
For telecom applications, including 1550 nm, we provide comprehensive application notes with guidance on setup, optimisation, and integration to streamline implementation and reduce development time.
Single Photons
Collection
The photons are collected by a nanophotonic waveguide with near-unity efficiency (β>95%) and directed to an out-coupling diffraction grating.
Quantum Dot
Excitation & Spatial Selection
The quantum dot is excited by a pulsed laser at 80 MHz. The unique planar design enables spatial selection of the highest performing quantum dot to produce indistinguishable single photons on demand.
Sparrow Core
Fact Sheet
Example of measured device
Parameters
Exciton
Wavelength
Lifetime
Single photon purity
Indistinguishability
Source efficiency
Specs
Neutral exciton
933 nm
300 ps
g(2)(0) ~ 0,1%
97%
50%
HOM-measurement