July 2015

Conference Paper

Provably secure time distribution for the electric grid

By:
Smith Iv, Amos M; Evans, Philip G; Williams, Brian P; Grice, Warren P
Journal Name:
Proceedings of SPIE
Page Number:
1
Volume:
9500
Issue Number:
N/A
Publication Date:
July 29, 2015
Conference Name:
SPIE Defense, Security and Sensing techonologies
Conference Location:
Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
View DOI Listing:
https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2178917

Abstract

We demonstrate a quantum time distribution (QTD) method that combines the precision of optical timing techniques with the integrity of quantum key distribution (QKD). Critical infrastructure is dependent on microprocessor- and programmable logic-based monitoring and control systems. The distribution of timing information across the electric grid is accomplished by GPS signals which are known to be vulnerable to spoofing. We demonstrate a method for synchronizing remote clocks based on the arrival time of photons in a modifed QKD system. This has the advantage that the signal can be veried by examining the quantum states of the photons similar to QKD.