Scaling quantum computing by reducing error impact and enhancing efficiency

Scaling quantum computing by reducing error impact and enhancing efficiency
by Riko Seibo
Osaka, Japan (SPX) Sep 01, 2024
Fujitsu Limited and the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology at Osaka University (QIQB) have jointly developed two new technologies aimed at advancing the space-time efficient analog rotation quantum computing architecture. These innovations are expected to significantly accelerate the path toward practical quantum computing.

The two organizations have created technologies that enhance phase angle accuracy during phase rotation and automatically generate efficient qubit operation procedures. This advancement has led to a theoretical demonstration that a quantum computer could solve a calculation, specifically a material energy estimate, that would take a classical computer five years to complete in just ten hours. Notably, this computation would require only 60,000 qubits, a much lower number than typically anticipated for fault-tolerant quantum computation (FTQC) to outperform classical computers.

These findings illustrate, for the first time, how quantum advantage-where quantum computers outperform classical ones-can be achieved in the early-FTQC era, which is expected to emerge around 2030. The potential applications of quantum computing extend to numerous fields, such as enabling larger-scale analysis of the Hubbard model to develop high-temperature superconductors. This could lead to more efficient electrical infrastructure and innovations in material development and drug discovery.

The efficient qubit operation procedures were made possible by the development of a quantum circuit generator. This system simplifies the conversion of logic gates, the fundamental operations in quantum computing, into physical gates that control the qubits. Additionally, it incorporates acceleration technology that optimizes computing time by dynamically adjusting the qubit operation procedures.

Fujitsu and QIQB initially unveiled the quantum computing architecture on March 23, 2023, but practical applications were hindered by challenges, including insufficient accuracy in phase rotation and the absence of a standardized physical gating procedure for specific calculation problems. The new technologies effectively address these challenges.

Through ongoing collaboration, Fujitsu and QIQB aim to leverage quantum computing to tackle societal issues, including decarbonization and reducing the costs associated with developing new materials.