Accelerate Quantum Computing with a New Modular System

Groundbreaking Modular System

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.

Challenges in Quantum Computing

Currently, the most advanced quantum processor consists only of 1,000 qubits, far from the millions required for powerful quantum computers. Each qubit operates at a unique frequency, making it essential to individually control each qubit by adjusting its frequency. Additionally, connecting qubits necessitates frequency matching.

Innovative Solutions for Qubit Connection

Srinivasa highlighted the complexity of simultaneously achieving these operations as the number of qubits increases. Her team developed a modular system that can connect qubits over long distances. The proposed method applies oscillating voltages to introduce additional frequencies for each qubit, enabling connections without the need to match all original frequencies.

Utilizing Microwave Cavity Photons

Furthermore, the researchers identified that qubits cannot be directly connected as they require a mediator for frequency matching. Using special microwave cavity photons, the team found a way to adjust the frequencies and enable communication between qubits when their frequencies are close.

Srinivasa explained that their study provides comprehensive guidelines for long-distance entangling links that allow flexibility by making multiple frequencies available for each qubit to be linked with microwave cavity photons of a given frequency.