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Quantum information processing with superconducting circuits: a review (1610.02208v2)

Published 7 Oct 2016 in quant-ph

Abstract: During the last ten years, superconducting circuits have passed from being interesting physical devices to becoming contenders for near-future useful and scalable quantum information processing (QIP). Advanced quantum simulation experiments have been shown with up to nine qubits, while a demonstration of Quantum Supremacy with fifty qubits is anticipated in just a few years. Quantum Supremacy means that the quantum system can no longer be simulated by the most powerful classical supercomputers. Integrated classical-quantum computing systems are already emerging that can be used for software development and experimentation, even via web interfaces. Therefore, the time is ripe for describing some of the recent development of superconducting devices, systems and applications. As such, the discussion of superconducting qubits and circuits is limited to devices that are proven useful for current or near future applications. Consequently, the centre of interest is the practical applications of QIP, such as computation and simulation in Physics and Chemistry.

Citations (752)

Summary

  • The paper demonstrates that superconducting circuits evolved from low-coherence systems to robust qubits through innovations like the transmon design.
  • It details experimental breakthroughs such as universal gate operations and high-fidelity multi-qubit interactions crucial for scalable quantum computing.
  • It outlines future prospects including hybrid system integration and advanced error correction, marking key steps toward achieving quantum supremacy.

Quantum Information Processing with Superconducting Circuits: A Review

The paper "Quantum Information Processing with Superconducting Circuits: a Review," authored by G. Wendin, offers an extensive review of the advancements in superconducting circuits for quantum information processing (QIP) over a decade. Superconducting circuits have significantly matured in their capacity to support scalable and practical quantum computing applications. The paper describes the transition from merely intriguing quantum systems to practical candidates poised to demonstrate quantum supremacy, where quantum systems exceed classical computational capabilities.

Key Developments in Superconducting Qubits

The paper highlights that superconducting qubits, such as the Josephson junction-based Cooper pair box, have evolved remarkably. Initial implementations demonstrated very short coherence times, limiting their practical applications. However, innovations like the transmon qubit design have achieved significantly longer coherence times by mitigating sensitivity to charge noise. This evolution marks a critical trajectory towards practical quantum hardware as coherence improvements extend qubit calcualtion times.

Achievements and Theoretical Foundations

Superconducting circuits show promising experimental validation in foundational quantum computing tasks such as state initialization, universal gate operation, and single-shot readout—an essential feature for practical QIP. Moreover, the review discusses the realization of several central quantum algorithms and protocols, demonstrating their capacity for practical computational tasks. For instance, the paper notes that superconducting qubits have achieved multi-qubit gate operations with high fidelity, reaching beyond mere proof-of-principle stages to operational, scalable platforms.

Challenges in Quantum Complexity

The paper also dwells on the broader context of quantum computational complexity, contrasting quantum problem-solving capabilities with classical computational limitations. It acknowledges the complexity of tasks such as solving NP-complete problems and notes quantum computers' potential for offering advantageous solutions in certain domains, although they remain constrained by intricate resources. These discussions emphasize the nuanced role of superconducting circuits in navigating these complexity landscapes, positioning them as promising yet challenging frontiers.

Prospects for Quantum Supremacy

A significant future milestone discussed in the paper is demonstrating quantum supremacy using superconducting circuits with around 50 qubits, potentially opening avenues for tasks intractable by classical computers. The anticipated transition to practical supremacy underscores the need for continued improvements in coherence times as well as error-correction capabilities, supported by sophisticated quantum control and feedback mechanisms.

Hybrid Systems and Future Directions

The paper outlines future possibilities involving hybrid systems that couple superconducting qubits with other quantum systems, like spins or optical components, to enhance functionality and capabilities. The hybrid approach could offer more robust systems with practical quantum memories and quantum-state transduction capabilities, essential for distributed quantum computing.

Conclusion

The review by Wendin emphasizes that superconducting circuits are at a pivotal stage, where they can soon contribute significantly to quantum technology's nascent proliferation. By addressing both theoretical and practical aspects, the paper provides a detailed roadmap for future advancements, emphasizing the necessity of interdisciplinary synthesis in software, algorithms, and quantum hardware. This comprehensive review remains a valuable reference for researchers focusing on the next generation of quantum technologies. As superconducting circuits approach commercially viable quantum systems, they continue to be a cornerstone of quantum information science.