Qubits vs bits

There is a fundamental limit to the computational power of classic computers which store information as binary states within individuals bits. Quantum computers have the potential to address problems that classical computing cannot through a fundamentally different approach to storing and processing data.

Quantum computing utilises quantum phenomena to manipulate information, namely superposition, entanglement and interference, stored within quantum bits (Qubits).

Entanglement distribution

In order to realise the potential computing power, quantum processing systems must contain many qubits, interacting with one another. However, it may be difficult to enable every pair of qubits to interact directly. For two qubits that cannot directly interact, a method must be provided to allow them to work together indirectly.

One such method to provide these indirect connections is to distribute entanglement across the network, but techniques for doing so using only direct interactions may require significant amounts of time, increasing the risk of quantum decoherence and a loss of entanglement between qubits.

QLNC circuits

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a method of allowing a quantum processing system to address this current problem and operate on the quantum state of qubits that are not directly linked in an array.

This method means that operations between remote qubits can be performed in parallel compared to sequentially as is currently the state in a classical-quantum network. The advantages of implementing this method are as follows:

• Increased operating efficiency compared to routing data through quantum networks
• Improved parallelisation, which reduced susceptibility of the system to both losses of coherence between qubits and noise in the system.

Market opportunity

Quantum computing is a rapidly expanding market, expected to grow from $472 million this year to $1,765 million by 2026 with a CAGR of 30.2%.

Commercialisation

Oxford University Innovation is looking to speak with parties interested in developing or licensing this technology. The technology is subject to a patent application.