Paderborn's scientists revolutionize quantum computer technology!

Von WOM

The potential of quantum technologies that research the basics of physics up to the smallest detail opens doors to previously unimaginable possibilities. The development of quantum computers in particular is a central focus of scientific research and technical innovations that promise to far exceed existing computer technologies. Researchers have achieved significant achievements in Paderborn: they have successfully put the "Paderborn Quantum Sampler" (PAQS) into operation.

This impressive project was realized as part of the funding initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and combines the specialist knowledge of 13 partners from science and industry, including companies such as Menlo Systems, Fraunhofer IOF in Jena and Swabian Instruments. The project is coordinated by Q.ant, a leading German company for quantum technologies. With a total of around 50 million euros in funding, the project aims to bring Germany in international competition to photonic quantum computing.

new approaches in quantum research

quantum computers are known for their sensitivity to imperfections, which is why there are various research approaches worldwide. The leading photonic quantum computers are currently located in countries such as China, Singapore, France and Canada. In Germany, however, the team around Professor Dr. Christine Silberhorn The special expertise in integrated photonics to realize a new model called "Gaußscher Boson Sampler". This requires the development of many new components and shows the complexity and the effort of the project.

The Paqs system is a paradigm of the Gaussschen Boson Sampling, in which it is measured, from which outputs of a photonic network the photons emerge. This opens up completely new possibilities in quantum computing research. In contrast to previous models, PAQS was developed with a clear focus on system integration and complete programming, which means that any desired configuration can be implemented without any problems.

functionality and possible uses

The PAQS system is more than just a technical device; It represents a flexible tool for solving complex problems. For example, when investigating protein folding or calculating molecular conditions in medication research, it could be of crucial importance. The programmability of the system enables future applications to be integrated, which gives research an unprecedented flexibility.

A key element of the PAQS system is the production of squeezed conditions that act as quantum resources in this context. These special light sources make it possible to optimally take advantage of the quantum mechanics. Professor Silberhorn and her team have used their many years of experience in the development of optical wave directors to generate squeezed conditions that serve as a drive for the quantum computer.

Overall, the progress that the researchers in Paderborn achieve is an important step in quantum research. The development of photonic quantum computers that use light for calculation offers a clear perspective towards scalability and high clock rates. By further investigating the advantages and challenges of the various approaches in quantum computing, the scientists get closer to Germany as a pioneer in this scientific discipline. Further information about the project can be found here

(PD/University Paderborn)