Quantum News briefs: March 9, 2024: Tabor Electronics and FormFactor Collaborate to Demonstrate a Quantum Computer with 5 Qubits, Powered by Quantware; HP Launches World’s First Business PCs to Protect Firmware Against Quantum Computer Hacks; Lanzhou University and Hubei University Scientists propose new scheme for the quantum battery using waveguides; “3 Quantum Computing Stocks Primed for Real-World Breakthroughs”; and MORE!

Quantum News Briefs: March 9, 2024: 

Tabor Electronics and FormFactor Collaborate to Demonstrate a Quantum Computer with 5 Qubits, Powered by Quantware

In a significant collaboration, Tabor Electronics and FormFactor, alongside QuantWare, have completed the initial phase of the Echo-5Q project, marking a significant milestone in the quantum computing field. This project showcases a fully functional 5-qubit quantum computer powered by QuantWare’s Quantum Processing Unit (QPU) designed for research and education. The Echo-5Q project has achieved a remarkable 250% improvement in T1 times over comparable small-scale quantum systems, leading to enhanced qubit fidelity and increased quantum operations per cycle. The project brings together FormFactor’s LF-600 Cryogen-free Dilution Refrigerator, Tabor Electronics’ Proteus Direct to RF Control Electronics, QuantWare’s Soprano-D QPU, and Tabor’s EureQa Qubit Characterization Software into a fully integrated, customizable quantum computing solution. This collaboration demonstrates the partners’ ability to advance the quantum industry with their technologies. It provides an essential platform for developing and testing new quantum technologies, addressing the growing demand for practical quantum computing experience and education.

HP Launches World’s First Business PCs to Protect Firmware Against Quantum Computer Hacks

HP has set a new benchmark by announcing the launch of the world’s first business PCs designed to safeguard firmware against potential quantum computer attacks at their Annual Partner Conference 2024. This pioneering initiative integrates an advanced Endpoint Security Controller (ESC) chip into select PCs, offering unparalleled security features to protect sensitive and regulated data from the looming threat of quantum computing. With a 27% consensus among experts on the likelihood of a cryptographically relevant quantum computer by 2033, the need for quantum-resistant cryptographic measures has become urgent. HP’s innovative approach not only anticipates the future challenges posed by quantum computing but also provides a robust solution by embedding quantum-resistant cryptography at the hardware level, ensuring the longevity and security of PC firmware against quantum vulnerabilities. This move aligns with growing global momentum towards quantum-safe practices and underscores HP’s commitment to future-proofing digital infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.

Lanzhou University and Hubei University Scientists propose new scheme for the quantum battery using waveguides

Researchers at Lanzhou University and Hubei University have significantly advanced the development of quantum batteries (QBs) with a novel charging scheme using a rectangular hollow metal waveguide, as published in Physical Review Letters. This innovative approach addresses two major challenges in quantum battery performance: environment-induced decoherence and limitations in charging distance. By placing the battery and charger within the waveguide, the researchers were able to mitigate decoherence effects, enabling long-lasting and efficient QB performance. The study, led by Prof. Jun-Hong An, demonstrates a mechanism for coherent energy exchange between the QB and charger by meditating an infinite-mode electromagnetic field within the waveguide. This breakthrough contradicts the common belief that decoherence leads to QB aging and showcases the potential for remote wireless charging and the enhancement of charging power, capacity, and work extraction through quantum entanglement. This research opens up new possibilities for developing lighter, thinner devices with greater durability and without environmental pollution, marking a step forward in the practical realization of quantum batteries.

In Other News: New Scientist article: “D-Wave says its quantum computers can solve otherwise impossible tasks”

A recent New Scientist article highlights that D-Wave, a quantum computing firm, claims to have reached a significant milestone by solving real-world applicable problems faster than traditional supercomputers, achieving what they term “computational supremacy.” This advancement suggests that quantum computers could soon be commercially viable. The company’s Advantage and prototype Advantage2 quantum computers can solve complex transverse field Ising model problems, which would be impractically difficult for the world’s most powerful classical computer, Frontier, requiring millions of years and an unsustainable amount of electricity. Despite D-Wave’s optimism, external experts express caution, noting the quantum annealing approach used by D-Wave limits the computers to specific optimization problems, unlike general quantum computers. While there’s excitement about the potential applications in physics, logistics, and finance, the practical utility and commercial viability remain topics of ongoing debate, with challenges in engineering, interpretation of results, and the possibility of classical computing advancements undermining quantum gains.

In Other News: Investor Place article: “3 Quantum Computing Stocks Primed for Real-World Breakthroughs”

Despite a 50% drop in venture investments in quantum technology from 2022 to 2023, the quantum computing industry continues to show signs of growth and development, fueled by advancements in hardware and software applications, highlights a recent Investor Place article. Major technology firms like Intel, Alphabet, and FormFactor are making significant strides in this innovative field. Intel’s introduction of the Tunnel Falls quantum computing chip showcases its commitment to leveraging advanced manufacturing capabilities for quantum computing. Alphabet, through its subsidiary Quantum AI, is focused on developing efficient, faster, and more intelligent computing solutions. At the same time, FormFactor specializes in providing critical testing and measurement solutions for quantum computing chips. These developments indicate a transition from theoretical exploration to practical application, with national labs and quantum centers beginning to receive full-stack quantum computer deliveries. Despite the recent slowdown in private investment, government funding and the continued efforts of industry leaders suggest a cautiously optimistic outlook for the quantum computing sector, highlighting its potential as a key area for future technological advancements and investment.