Quantum computers will have great computing power. They will do this with quantum particles called qubits. To explain how important qubits are with a simple example, the process of prime factorization of a 2048-bit number, which takes millions of years in an ordinary computer, can be completed in just minutes in quantum computers.
The development of silicon qubits is an area where physicists are producing increasingly efficient and more advanced end products. Still, we don’t have many alternatives when it comes to running these qubits together. At least not until this last study.
Connecting qubits with light in the quantum
Defective structures in silicon, called T centers, can be used as a photonic (light-based) coupling system to link qubits, according to new research. Quantum physicist Stephanie Simmons of Simor Fraser University in Canada said that having an emitter like the T center at the center will pave the way for scalable, deployable quantum computers when used in conjunction with high-performance qubits and optical photon generation.
The basis of this feature lies in the fact that the aforementioned light-based connections can perform both processing and communication functions at the same time. Thus, there is no need for a separate connection interface for communication and for operation.
So what does this mean?
To summarize briefly, the new system uses the existing structure. It’s also more efficient and probably easier to produce. The researchers also state that this is the first time they have witnessed such quantum particle activity occur optically in silicon.
Another advantage is that T centers transmit light at the same wavelength as current fiber connection means. Thus, quantum devices will be much easier to use and spread because no new infrastructure will be required, at least for a while.
The research was published in the journal Nature.
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