Researchers closer to quantum computing
Published: April 10, 2008 at 11:39 AM
EVANSTON, Ill., April 10 (UPI) -- Quantum computing is currently mostly fodder for science fiction writers, but U.S. scientists say they've moved one step closer to realizing that technology.
Northwestern University Professor Prem Kumar said he and his colleagues recently demonstrated one of the basic building blocks for distributed quantum computing: using entangled photons generated in optical fibers.
"Because it is done with fiber and the technology that is already globally deployed, we think it is a significant step in harnessing the power of quantum computers," Kumar said.
Quantum computing differs from classical computing in that a classical computer works by processing "bits" that exist in two states, either one or zero. Quantum computing uses quantum bits, or qubits, which, in addition to being one or zero, can also be both one and zero simultaneously, the scientists said, noting that's possible because qubits are quantum units like atoms or photons that operate under the rules of quantum mechanics instead of classical mechanics.
The research that included Jun Chen, Joseph Altepeter, Milja Medic, Kim Fook Lee and Burc Gokden of Northwestern, as well as Robert Hadfield, and Sae Woo Nam of the National Institute of Standards and Technology appears in the journal Physical Review Letters.
Northwestern University Professor Prem Kumar said he and his colleagues recently demonstrated one of the basic building blocks for distributed quantum computing: using entangled photons generated in optical fibers.
"Because it is done with fiber and the technology that is already globally deployed, we think it is a significant step in harnessing the power of quantum computers," Kumar said.
Quantum computing differs from classical computing in that a classical computer works by processing "bits" that exist in two states, either one or zero. Quantum computing uses quantum bits, or qubits, which, in addition to being one or zero, can also be both one and zero simultaneously, the scientists said, noting that's possible because qubits are quantum units like atoms or photons that operate under the rules of quantum mechanics instead of classical mechanics.
The research that included Jun Chen, Joseph Altepeter, Milja Medic, Kim Fook Lee and Burc Gokden of Northwestern, as well as Robert Hadfield, and Sae Woo Nam of the National Institute of Standards and Technology appears in the journal Physical Review Letters.
© 2008 United Press International. All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
» Next in Science:
Very active 2008 hurricane season forecast
Latest Headlines
- Salem, Mass., allows hens in the house
- Police officer breastfeeds quake orphans
- Court says Texas wrong to take children
- Canadian home renovations climbed in 2007
- Sainthood sought for Pope John Paul II
- Naked gator man arrested for missing court
- Senate passes increase in veterans' aid
- Quake scenario unveiled for S.California
Most Popular
- Pujols shocked by liner at pitcher
- Study: Smoking hurts popularity
- UPI NewsTrack Entertainment News
- Report: Federer likes French Open chances
- FAA bans smoking cessation drug Chantix
- Manson's name left at ghost town building
- Man vomits harmful gas, 54 people fall ill
- Queen said irked by $1M Hello! deal