Quantum networks shown to work on existing internet cables
10 days ago
- #quantum-networking
- #Q-chip
- #quantum-internet
- Engineers from the University of Pennsylvania designed a 'Q-chip' to transport quantum data over modern internet networks.
- The experiment, published in Science, moved quantum networking from labs to commercial fiber-optic cables.
- The 'Q-chip' could pave the way for a transformative 'quantum internet' similar to the early days of the classical internet.
- Quantum networks rely on entangled particles, which could link quantum computers and enhance processing power.
- Potential applications include faster, more energy-efficient AI and advancements in medicine, such as anti-cancer drug design.
- Quantum entanglement is fragile; observing quantum particles destroys their quantum state, making network calibration difficult.
- The 'Q-chip' sends quantum signals over live commercial fiber by coordinating with classical signals from regular light particles.
- Classical signals act as headers, guiding quantum signals without destroying their quantum state.
- The system uses the same Internet Protocol (IP) as classical networks, ensuring compatibility with existing infrastructure.
- An error-correction method using classical signals maintains quantum signal accuracy over 97% despite environmental challenges.
- The silicon-based 'Q-chip' is designed for mass production, facilitating the expansion of quantum networks.