Construction of Practical Quantum Computers Radically Simplified

Source:University of Sussex

Summary:Scientists have invented a ground-breaking new method that puts the construction of large-scale quantum computers within reach of current technology.

A trapped-ion quantum computer would consist of an array of X-junctions with quantum bits formed by individual ions that are trapped above the surface of the quantum chip (shown in grey). Individual quantum bits are manipulated simply by tuning voltages as easy as tuning a radio to different stations. Applying voltage V1 results in no quantum operation (blue zones), applying voltage V2 results in a quantum operation on a single quantum bit (green zones), applying voltage V3 results in a quantum operation 'entangling' two quantum bits (red zones). An arbitrary large quantum computer can be constructed based on this simple-to engineer approach.

Credit: University of Sussex

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/12/161202103416.htm

It seems like all the time there are new breakthroughs in quantum computing. I'm wondering if there isn't a working quantum computer hidden away in some "black project" somewhere.