| 日期 15 October 2024
Quantum technologies are transforming our world. The study of quantum particles brings us closer to realizing technology that once seemed impossible. From revolutionizing quantum research and advancing drug development to cryptography, there are fields where quantum computers are positioned to surpass even the best classical supercomputers. This month is marked by great news—the launch of the first photonic quantum computer built in Paderborn, Germany! At Swabian Instruments, we’re proud to have enabled this breakthrough with our software-based Photon Number Resolution (PNR) on single SNSPDs!
The Paderborn Quantum Sampler (PaQS) represents a monumental achievement in Europe’s quantum landscape. It was developed through the collaborative efforts of the University of Paderborn, Menlo Systems, Fraunhofer IOF Jena, and Swabian Instruments. The PaQS is supported by the PhoQuant project within the Quantumcomputer Demonstrators funding initiative from the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung) and is coordinated by Q.ANT. Until now, the largest photonic quantum computers have been created in China, Singapore, France, and Canada. Despite significant advancements, these machines were extremely affected by optical losses. Scientists at Paderborn University tackled this problem by drawing on Germany’s world-leading expertise in integrated photonics and successfully developed “The Gaussian Boson Sampler".
At Swabian Instruments, we’re honored to have played an important role in making this breakthrough possible. We provided software-based photon number resolution (PNR) technology that enhances the precision of single-photon counting using single Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors (SNSPDs). PNR is an enabling technique used to precisely determine the number of photons involved in a detection event. This technique leverages the intrinsic photon-number-resolution capabilities of SNSPDs as well as sophisticated signal analysis, making it indispensable for quantum cryptography and quantum communication.
Swabian Instruments’ innovation enables accurate detection and measurement of individual photon modes, which is essential for the effective operation of the photonic quantum computer.
As quantum technology continues to evolve, the implications for industries like healthcare, energy, and data security are immense. At Swabian Instruments, we are continuously innovating our cutting-edge solutions for photon detection, pushing existing boundaries in quantum technologies, and working hand-in-hand with our partners to make quantum computing a reality. Stay tuned!
Photo: Paderborn University, Martin Ratz