Demonstrator for Time-Correlated Single-Photon Counting

Quantum technologies are often still regarded as a technology of the future. In fact, they are already being used today in important application areas, such as time-resolved single-photon measurement. However, access to these technologies is often still challenging: commercial systems are expensive, while affordable and flexible hardware is not yet widely available.

With the DEZEM project, Fraunhofer IIS in Dresden is developing a compact, cost-effective, and portable demonstrator for time-resolved single-photon measurement based on TCSPC technology (Time-Correlated Single-Photon Counting). The aim is to provide companies, research institutions, and educational partners with an easy and practical entry point into applications in quantum technologies, biophotonics, materials analysis, and sensor technology.

At the same time, the project showcases the expertise of Fraunhofer IIS Dresden and the Performance Center in the fields of photonics, ultrafast electronics, and time-tagging. DEZEM thereby supports knowledge transfer, workforce training, and the initiation of new collaborations between academia and industry.

The project is primarily aimed at SMEs and industrial partners seeking to explore new applications in quantum technologies, photonic measurement systems, or sensor technology but currently constrained by high costs and complex laboratory equipment. It also targets universities, research institutions, and educational partners, who can use the demonstrator for teaching, training, and technology transfer.

Objectives

• Development of a cost-effective, portable, and easy-to-use demonstrator providing a simple entry point into single-photon measurement and quantum technologies.
• Strengthening visibility and technology transfer through presentations in showrooms, networks, at trade fairs, and at other events.
• Promoting education, workforce development, and collaboration, as well as supporting further training, research projects, and technology transfer.