A complete chip-based quantum communication system is demonstrated. The core functions of quantum transmitter, quantum receiver and quantum random number generator are implemented onto photonic integrated circuits (PICs) of different materials. For the first time, these PICs are all interfaced in a compact optoelectronic assembly where they operate synchronously to distribute information theoretically secure encryption keys in real-time. After reviewing the challenges of system integration for quantum photonic circuits, we present our development of plug-and-play quantum communication modules that are practical, scalable, power efficient and perform with high stability under real-life conditions.
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