The Quantum Technology and Applications Lab (QTA Lab), Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (PTIT), has successfully developed the first prototype of an automated Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) laboratory platform based on the BB84 protocol. The development is carried out at the Australia–Vietnam Strategic Technologies Centre (AVSTC), where QTA Lab is located. The project is built upon the Thorlabs Quantum Cryptography Demonstration Kit, supported by AVSTC, providing a valuable foundation for quantum communication education and research at PTIT.

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a quantum communication technology that enables two parties to establish encryption keys with security guaranteed by the laws of quantum physics. Unlike conventional cryptographic techniques, any attempt to intercept the quantum key exchange introduces detectable disturbances, making QKD one of the most promising technologies for next-generation secure communications.

While commercial QKD systems are designed for practical deployment, they typically operate as highly integrated “black-box” solutions, offering limited visibility into the underlying key distribution process. In contrast, the Thorlabs educational platform allows users to directly observe and understand the operation of the BB84 protocol. To further enhance its educational and research capabilities, QTA Lab has developed dedicated hardware and software modules that automate key experimental procedures while preserving the transparency of the system.

The current prototype supports automated control of the BB84 experiment, computer-based operation of the QKD process, real-time system monitoring, and automated data acquisition. These capabilities improve the repeatability and efficiency of laboratory experiments while establishing an open platform for future research on QKD performance evaluation, eavesdropping detection, advanced quantum communication protocols, and quantum networking.

This development reflects QTA Lab’s mission of building practical experimental platforms that bridge education and research in quantum technologies. By providing students and researchers with hands-on access to real quantum communication systems, the laboratory aims to accelerate talent development and foster innovation in quantum communications.

Although the platform is currently at the prototype stage, it represents an important milestone in establishing quantum communication research infrastructure at PTIT. QTA Lab will continue expanding the platform to support advanced research, laboratory education, and international collaboration, contributing to the growth of Vietnam’s quantum technology ecosystem.