XAPHIRO
Prototype trapped-ion quantum computer with at least 50 qubits
Objective
We are developing a microfabricated quantum computer prototype based on ion trapping technology with at least 50 fully functional qubits.
As part of the project Xaphiro we will develop and operate a powerful quantum computer based on ion trapping technology. At the heart of the system is a 50-qubit quantum processor with developed by Qudora Technologies, in whose registers the qubits can be stored, prepared and scanned. The qubits are transported between the registers using electrical signals. As the quantum processor is manufactured on the basis of a scalable microfabrication process, even more powerful computing units could potentially be implemented in the future. NXP Semiconductors is providing a specially developed photon detector based on Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology, which will be used to read out the qubits. The project focuses on the development of a suitable platform that is accessible for different user groups and features a user-friendly interface.
Motivation
To give our qubits a long service life, we use a cryostat to cool the quantum processor down to a temperature of four Kelvin. A key feature of the processor is the implementation of elementary arithmetic operations (quantum gates) using microwave components that are integrated at chip level. This highly integrative and fully electronic approach avoids the fundamental sources of error present in laser-induced quantum gates and significantly improves scalability. To detect the qubits, we use photon detectors that are specially optimised for cryogenic temperatures and are based on CMOS technology.
Challenge
The basic mechanisms of the trapped-ion quantum computer have already been demonstrated in a series of laboratory experiments. The major challenges that researchers currently face can be divided into two areas. Firstly, it is necessary to demonstrate that all necessary elements can be integrated into the quantum processor in a scalable and functional way. Secondly, the quality of the quantum gates must be increased in order to be able to apply error correction protocols efficiently. Our highly integrative approach allows us to focus on these two challenges by combining a fully microfabricated and CMOS-based processor-detector unit with the very high quality of microwave-induced quantum gates.
QUDORA Technologies
QUDORA is a deep tech spin-off of the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Technische Universität Braunschweig and Leibniz Universität Hannover and part of the Quantum Valley Lower Saxony (QVLS) ecosystem. The start-up develops quantum computers based on ion trap technology, in which computing operations are carried out by means of microwave components integrated into the quantum processor.
NXP Semiconductors Germany
NXP is one of the world’s leading semiconductor companies. With around 900 employees, the activities at its Hamburg site focus primarily on research, development, testing and marketing for several business units. NXP can build on experience and expertise of more than 60 years. The most important NXP competence centres in Hamburg are secure solutions for autonomous driving, cybersecurity, Industry 4.0, and the latest one, Quantum Computing.