Researchers propose new technique to accelerate quantum computer development
A team of researchers led by Vanita Srinivasa, an assistant professor of Physics at the University of Rhode Island (URI), has proposed a groundbreaking modular system. This system could potentially overcome significant challenges in the field of quantum computing. The primary obstacle lies in controlling and connecting qubits, the basic units of information in a quantum computer. Currently, the most advanced quantum processor consists only 1,000 qubits, far from the millions required for powerful quantum computers.
The challenge of controlling and connecting qubits
Each qubit in a quantum computer operates at a unique frequency. To fully utilize a quantum system, it's essential to individually control each qubit by adjusting its frequency. Additionally, connecting qubits necessitates matching their frequencies. Srinivasa highlighted the complexity of this task as the number of qubits increases in a quantum processor, stating that "being able to simultaneously achieve both of these operations for every qubit becomes very challenging."
URI team's solution to quantum computing challenges
Srinivasa and her team at URI have developed a solution to these challenges in quantum computing. They suggest a modular system that could connect qubits over long distances. The proposed method involves applying oscillating voltages to introduce additional frequencies for each qubit, allowing them to be linked without matching all their original frequencies. This innovative approach provides a practical way for a quantum system to easily adjust and match different qubit frequencies.
The role of microwave cavity photons in quantum computing
The researchers also identified that qubits cannot be directly connected as they require a mediator to match frequencies and facilitate exchanges. To address this, they used special microwave cavity photons. When qubit frequencies are close, these photons help adjust the frequencies and enable communication between qubits. Srinivasa explained their study "provides comprehensive guidelines for tailored long-distance entangling links that allow flexibility by making multiple frequencies available for each qubit to become linked with microwave cavity photons of a given frequency."
