We propose a method to use output beams from an optical parametric oscillat
or to prepare and monitor entangled states of distant atoms. The method, wh
ich involves photon detection and feed-back, relies on the interaction of t
he atoms with many pairs of photons, but it does not crucially depend on th
e value of the atom-photon interaction strength. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science
B.V. All rights reserved.