Quantum computing will define the future of research and development in numerous ways. But how close are we to reaching a place where these computers become the norm?
In this article, we will explore some of the recent developments that became important milestones in our quest for developing and using Quantum computers.
Qubits have been reimagined
The biggest obstacle on the road to Quantum computing has been the shortage of qubits. Each qubit works in alignment with the other ones, creating an array that solves problems at an unprecedented rate. Most of these qubits have been developed by universities and institutions in small quantities.
However, a pan-European collaboration with a French company called Leti has revealed a new direction on this. They are working toward using run-of-the-mill transistors as qubits. This theory has been validated by the likes of Niels Bohr Institute.
Quantum dots in a Two-Dimensional array is now reality
A 2X2 lattice of Quantum dots is one of the key features of the Quantum computer concept. Recently, it was discovered that single electron control in every one of these dots is possible. It is a big leap ahead and accelerates the development of Quantum computers.
Single electron control of this magnitude means that the development of a qubit will take a different turn. One of the many methodologies to make a qubit is to utilize the spin of one electron. Hence, controlling these electrons and doing so in a two-dimensional array of dots is a landmark in the pursuit of highly performing qubits.
Inching closer to industry-scale production
Anasua Chatterjee (Assistant Professor, Center for Quantum Devices, NBI) said that they had an idea of making a pin qubit array, focusing on single electrons, and controlling them. He also added that the pan-European project consortium deserves credit for this as well.
They started off from a single Quantum dot, slowly progressing to two electrons. Thanks to the funding they received from the EU, now they have been able to go even further, creating arrays. Building a Quantum computer isn’t a concept anymore—and if they crack the secret of using arrays to make high-performing qubits, industry-scale production isn’t far away.
Scientists are getting better at controlling errors
Errors are a part of any device’s way of tackling a problem. In the concept of Quantum computing, controlling errors is a different ball game.
The computers we use in our day-to-day lives end up making a lot of errors. What keeps these errors from creating a cascade of failures or making these devices malfunction is a code. The code is called a ‘repetition code.’ In a traditional computer, the information is binary (a series of zeroes and ones). If an error is made, the computer decides to do the calculation again. If one of the transistors generates an error, the computer decides to correct it using simple majority. This means that if most of the transistors point to 0 being the accurate answer, 1 is neglected and 0 is chosen as the final answer.
However, following this methodology isn’t possible in the case of a Quantum computer because an exact replica of a qubit can’t be made. Additionally, qubits have not been able to achieve a low-error rate yet. Hence, a two-dimensional array will work well since they can influence each other, keeping each other on the right path.
Innovation is the Key
At the Swiss Institute for disruptive innovation, as educators, innovators, and facilitators for success, we believe that innovation is the only way for us to keep coming up with solutions that can change the shape of numerous industries such as science, healthcare, and even military defense.
The thing that makes Quantum computing such a promising aspect for our future is its ability to solve problems at a lightning-fast rate. And looking at the recent innovations, it seems like these super machines are just around the corner!
Be prepared for the future of quantum computing
Quantum computers will change companies, entire industries, and the world by solving problems that seem impossible today. Learn the business and technical implications of the new frontier in computing and how you can apply them to boost your professional future joining the quantum computing basics course of School of Disruption.
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