Experimental multi-state quantum discriminationthrough optical networks

Abstract Developing strategies to effectively discriminate between different quantum states is a fundamental issue in information and communication. The actual realization of generally optimal protocols this task often limited by the need supplemental resources very complex receivers. We have experimentally implemented two discrimination schemes minimum-error scenario based on receiver featured network structure dynamical processing information. first protocol our experiment, directly inspired recent theoretical proposal, achieves binary discrimination, while second one provides novel approach multi-state relying features network-like receiver. This strategy exploits arrival time degree freedom as an encoding variable, achieving results, without for systems or devices. Our results further reveal potential approaches state tasks, providing possible starting point efficient alternatives current experimental strategies.