Quantum Computer Moves Step Closer to Reality

I might have titled it "Quantum Computer Moves a bit Closer to Reality", but you might have thought that was not funny or not punny, and certainly not both at the same time. Seriously, I would like to know how physicists know that a quantum computer could factor a thousand digit number in a fraction of a second. I have read that in several books.

The easiest method to prove the speed and accuracy of any new computer is to repeat a calculation of a transcendental number like pi to a predefined number of digits. Then compare the result and the time to calculate.

Since quantum computers don't yet exist, your reply has no relevance to my question.

Your point that this form of quantum computers doesn't yet exist is not being rebutted. [I dislike the term "quantum computer" in the first place. All semiconductors work by quantum mechanic effects. So the machine beneath my fingers can be argued to be a quantum computer.] I also agree with your point implied by your question. Without such a machine in existence no attribute can be measured. It is all speculation at this point in time.

My point was to explain that there is an already established reliable metric to measure any computers calculation speed and accuracy.

What question? What did you ask?

_{^{"I might have titled it "Quantum Computer Moves a bit Closer to Reality", but you might have thought that was not funny or not punny, and certainly not both at the same time. Seriously, I would like to know how physicists know that a quantum computer could factor a thousand digit number in a fraction of a second. I have read that in several books."}}

I don't see any question marks...

My understanding is that there are only a number of algorithms that "they" know how to run on a theoretical quantum computer. One of the most important is factorization, which would derail most cryptography in use today.

If they ever get one of these things working, take all your money out of the bank and put it in your mattress!

See Shor's Algorithm.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shor's_algorithm

Nobody knows the implication or final result of part of anybodies fantasy until that part becomes real.

Our past that formed our present is far more complicated than we can imagine. Our future is at least as complicated as our past. The possibilities in our future dwarf both the past and future.

IMHO calculating all possibilities leads to obfuscation instead of clarity.

42!

I miss Douglas. Save a rhinoceros.

Best sandwich maker in the galaxy!