The quantum computers They are not intended to be kept at home, as they need to be able to operate in a controlled environment and under very demanding conditions. This means that they need a wide space in which to develop their abilities, as well as excessively low temperature to function in an optimal way.
For all these reasons, companies that promote these models such as IBM, Intel, Google, Honeywell or IonQ dedicate their efforts to creating large-scale devices. The superconducting qubits and the trapped ions that integrate quantum computing require a refrigeration system that keeps them at a temperature of 20 millikelvin, or what is the same, of -273 degrees Celsius. Only then will it be possible to delay the process of quantum decoherence (consists in the disappearance of quantum interference, the principle of superposition). For all this, it is necessary to operate quickly and powerfully, since otherwise quantum effects would disappear and the computer would act like a conventional computer.
With this explanation, it is curious how Chinese company SpinQ has launched a tiny quantum computer on the market, triangle, compared to what we understand as a quantum computer, which looks more like a desktop computer. Has three NMR-type qubits (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance), measures 610x330x560 mm and weighs about 44 kg. This means that it can be deposited on a desk without any problem.
Its distinguishing features
Triangulum employs NMR qubits, very different from those used by quantum computers from other competing companies. They are not superconductors, but use the possibility of measuring the spin states of certain atoms in a molecule using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. Thus, the company has managed to develop a series of simple qubits capable of operating in undemanding environmental conditions.
There are precedents in this sense, since in 2001 the quantum computer that for the first time executed the Shor number factorization algorithm used this methodology. However, when using this type of qubits the number will be limited, since otherwise excessive noise will be generated and all operability will be lost.
NMR qubits are simpler and cheaper to activate than superconducting or trapped ion qubits. with quantum computers gemini Gemini-Mini and Triangulum, SpinQ tries to show that with two or three qubits you can have an efficient, practical and economical computer. Although it is cheaper than other quantum computers, Triangulum will be more expensive than a conventional computer, since Its price is close to 56,000 euros.
the forecast
Scientists say that quantum computers they will not serve to solve problems as complex as conventional supercomputers do well, so they will only be able to deal with very specific problems. For example, they may carry out the quantum system simulation (small molecules, macromolecules or materials), optimization problems that we want to solve at a reduced cost and issues related to the stochastic physics (which take advantage of the random-like nature of quantum hardware to simulate such random processes).
He handicap of quantum computers, according to experts, it will be found in its difficulty to perform office automation or content creation tasks, as well as to work with large databases or process complex knots of information.
In this sense, SpinQ wants its new compact Triangulum quantum computer to be used for train students interested in the subjectas well as to tackle simple scientific problems. It is true that two or three qubits are useless to carry out complex operations, and that this quantum hardware model has many limited operations, but it seeks precisely that, to be a revolutionary element in the market with a differentiating touch; Quantum technology within everyone’s reach.
If analyzed from the technical and research perspective, the IBM, Intel or Google models are more productive when they have several tens of qubits, although when it comes to applying them to teaching, the SpinQ teams are the best as the first contact with quantum systems. However, the company now expects see how the adaptation of Triangulum evolves to the marketif it is commercially successful in the sector and if it meets the expectations of the users.
