Iterative configuration of programmable unitary converter based on few layer redundant multi-plane light conversion

Abstract: Programmable unitary photonic devices are emerging as promising tools to implement unitary transformation for quantum information processing, machine learning, and optical communication. These devices typically use a rectangular mesh of Mach-Zehnder interferometers (MZIs), which has a clear mathematical structure and can be configured deterministically. However, this mesh architecture is sensitive to fabrication errors, and the correction techniques are still under investigation. In contrast, the multi-plane light conversion (MPLC) architecture is more robust against fabrication errors, but a deterministic method for configuring the converter has not yet been developed due to its complex mathematical structure. In this work, we propose a fast iterative configuration method for MPLC, following the mathematical review of the matrix distance and proposal of a new norm. We show through numerical simulations that adding a few redundant layers significantly improves the convergence of the MPLC architecture, making it a practical and attractive option. We also consider the effects of finite resolution and crosstalk in phase shifters in our simulations. In addition, we propose a phase-insensitive distance suited for applications using only intensity detections. Our method demonstrates orders of magnitude better accuracy and a 20-fold speed-up compared to previous approaches.