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QUDITS: Developing next-gen quantum communication systems using qudits

Date: 11.07.2025

Topics: Future telecoms, Quantum

Technology acceleration Job creation/safeguarding Quantum Supply chains
Cityscape at night with glowing lines and light trails, representing digital or smart city technology. - CSA Catapult

QUDITS

Quantum technologies being commercialised today are based on the two-level qubits system – but this limits the density of information that can be carried in a quantum system, and there will always be a need for higher data capacity. 

The Qudits project developed a demonstrator platform to showcase the feasibility of developing quantum communication systems using qudits (a multi-level quantum computational unit). This would have the potential to increase bandwidth, create faster access to networks, and transmit more data using less energy.  

The challenge

Current quantum technologies being developed rely on qubits – traditional quantum bits that are the fundamental unit of information in quantum computing. Unlike classical computing bits of 0s and 1s, qubits can exist in a state of superposition – meaning they can be 0 and 1 simultaneously, or any proportion of both. However, even this unique property has a ceiling. 

While a qubit is a two-level quantum system, a qudit can exist in one of several possible states. Essentially, it’s a quantum system with more than two energy levels that can be used to store and process information in a quantum computer.  

This has important implications, as higher throughput in quantum communications and their associated security is a major driver within the UK and Europe quantum market, along with the added benefit of transmitting more data in a single photon. Until this project, no companies in the UK were working publicly on commercial systems. This was the first move by an industrially focussed consortium into this area. 

The approach

The project began in August 2022 and ran for almost 2 years, comprising Vector Photonics, Phlux Technology Ltd and CSA Catapult.  

CSA Catapult designed the initial system, coupled with early sample tests of the laser detectors to understand component specification and design needs. CSA Catapult also designed and setup lab tests that were able to characterise the outputs and the ability of the components to demonstrate the effectiveness of qudits.  

A system design and prototype were possible due to the expertise and testing facilities provided by CSA Catapult.  

Phlux designed a new range of low-noise components in line with the project specifications and integrated this within the demonstrator.  

Vector Photonics developed the specific laser technology required, followed by packaging and integration of electronics for the final demonstrator.  

The outcome

The final demonstrator was successfully produced, demonstrating the concept and providing a design for future exploitation by the partners.  The technology developed during this project will support the expansion into the data communications market for both commercial partners. Secondary markets in sensing and additive manufacturing will be explored further through current customers for both commercial partners.  

Employment

Since the project, Vector has forecast the creation of 40 additional jobs, and Phlux forecast the creation of 50 new jobs as a result.  

Establishing a UK sovereign supply chain

This project also brought together a complete UK supply chain within the quantum communications sector and means that the UK can gain an increased share in the global semiconductor market.  

Increased sustainability

The technology developed has lower energy usage due to more efficient data transfer and reduced equipment, leading to less waste and pollution during manufacture.  

Related
case studies

CSA Catapult’s team combines industry experience with cutting-edge research and development, as exemplified in various case studies.

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