Quantum Technologies

The 4 pillars of quantum technology

Quantum technology works by using the principles of quantum mechanics. Within this field 4 main areas of interest have been identified:

• Quantum computing
• Quantum communication
• Quantum sensing and metrology
• Quantum simulation

Quantum computing

Quantum computers have the potential to perform calculations more efficiently than a classical computer, including solving difficult optimization problems. A future large quantum computer (with millions of qubits) would also be able to crack encryption codes much faster by figuring out which prime numbers are used. At the heart of quantum computing are qubits, the quantum analogs of classical bits. Unlike classical bits, which can be either 0 or 1, qubits can exist in a superposition of states, embodying both 0 and 1 simultaneously. Atoms are particularly promising candidates for qubits due to their well-defined energy levels and long coherence times, which are crucial for maintaining quantum information, however there are other candidates such as superconducting qubits, photon based qubits and ion trap qubits.

Learn more about quantum qubits in our beginner’s guide.

Laser cooling is also a pivotal technique in the preparation of atomic qubits.  It involves using the radiation pressure of light to slow down and cool atoms to temperatures close to absolute zero. This is essential for reducing thermal motion, thereby increasing the coherence times of qubits and improving their stability and control.

Learn about the fundamentals of laser cooling and atom trapping.

Quantum communication

Quantum communication uses entangled states to send messages that can’t be intercepted. In the longer term, a new internet built for quantum information is being discussed. Already in the shorter term, the technology is interesting for the secure sharing of data in, for example, health and safety sectors.

Quantum sensing and metrology

Quantum sensing and metrology leverage the unique properties of quantum mechanics to achieve measurements with unprecedented precision and sensitivity. Unlike classical sensors that rely on large collections of atoms, quantum sensors extract information from individual atoms or particles. These sensors exploit quantum phenomena such as entanglement, superposition, discrete states, and coherence to detect minute changes in physical quantities. The diverse range of quantum sensors includes devices tailored for various applications, from timekeeping and magnetic field detection (for example magnetometry based on NV centers) to temperature measurement and high-resolution imaging.

Learn more about the fundamentals of quantum sensing and metrology.

Quantum simulation

Quantum simulators are devices that actively use quantum effects to answer questions about model systems and, through them, real systems. Simulating models of the physical world is instrumental in advancing scientific knowledge and developing technologies. 

Future trends and developments

Quantum technologies are poised to revolutionize various fields due to their unique capabilities enabled by the principles of quantum mechanics. For example, one of the most anticipated future trends is the development of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers capable of solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers. Future trends will involve standardizing quantum technologies, integrating them into existing infrastructure, and addressing scalability and reliability challenges for widespread adoption. In recent years a number of growing startup ecosystems have been focused on commercializing quantum technologies across various industries, including finance, healthcare, and materials science. This highlights the diverse and transformative potential of quantum technologies in reshaping our future.

At HÜBNER Photonics we supply high performance lasers for many areas of quantum research, from NV center characterization to atom cooling and ion trapping. Our lasers are single frequency with very narrow linewidths, excellent beam parameters and very low noise.

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