Optimizing an Entangled Photon Apparatus for an Undergraduate Advanced Physics Lab

We present the design and enhancement of an entangled photon apparatus for use in an undergraduate physics laboratory. Initially constructed to demonstrate fundamental quantum mechanics concepts, the apparatus has been optimized for improved performance and cost-effectiveness. Our work explores modifications to enhance both the efficiency and accessibility of the setup. Additionally, we assess its potential applications in advanced physics labs and introductory quantum computing labs, where it can be used for experiments on quantum entanglement, Bell's inequality, quantum key distribution, quantum teleportation, and photon polarization studies. This project provides an affordable, practical platform for teaching quantum physics at the undergraduate level.