Abstract

Expressions are derived for the minimum photocount variances that can be achieved in direct and phase-sensitive detection. The results apply for arbitrary quantum efficiency and integration time, and they cover both homodyne and heterodyne detection in the phase-sensitive case. Particular attention is given to the regions of operation in which the photodetection-noise figures lie below the minimum values permitted by classical theory and correspond to sub-Poissonian statistics and squeezing.

© 1991 Optical Society of America

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