24 July 2012 Breakthrough chip could usher in new era of quantum computers Breakthrough device could usher in new era of quantum computing Researchers at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) have demonstrated for the first time a monolithic 3d ion microtrap array that could be scaled up to handle several tens of ion based quantum bits (qubits). The research, published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, shows how it is possible to realise the device embedded in a semiconductor chip, and demonstrates the device's ability to confine individual ions at the nanoscale. The team believes it could be used in quantum computation, where entangled qubits are used to execute powerful quantum algorithms. While scalable ion traps consisting of a 2d array of electrodes have been developed before, this is said to be the first time an ion microtrap array that combines a near ideal 3d geometry with a scalable fabrication process has been created. In terms of elementary operating characteristics, the researchers claim the microtrap chip outperforms all other scalable devices for ions. The device was developed from a silica on silicon wafer and created using a novel process based on conventional semiconductor fabrication technology. The team was able to confine individual and strings of up to 14 ions in a single segment of the array. The fabrication process, it says, should enable device scaling to handle greatly increased numbers of ions, whilst retaining the ability to individually control each of them. Author Laura Hopperton Comment on this article Websites http://www.npl.co.uk/ Companies NPL Management Ltd This material is protected by Findlay Media copyright See Terms and Conditions. One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not. For multiple copies contact the sales team. Enjoy this story? People who read this article also read... NIDays 2013 NIDays is a technical conference designed specifically for ... Read Article Southern Manufacturing This year, Southern Manufacturing and Electronics is set to be ... Read Article Claire Jeffreys, NEW Claire Jeffreys, events director, National Electronics Week, ... Read Article Arrow buys Nu Horizons Arrow is buying Nu Horizons in an all cash deal which values the ... Read Article What you think about this article: Add your comments Name Email Comments Your comments/feedback may be edited prior to publishing. Not all entries will be published. Please view our Terms and Conditions before leaving a comment.