Quantum Computing Could Be A Step Closer Thanks To “Noise-Cancelling” Technology

Mention quantum computing to anyone involved with technology and their eyes will light up like its Christmas day. With the theoretical ability to complete thousands of complicated calculations in a fraction of the time that it takes the most advanced processor available on the market, quantum computing could see your phone becoming as powerful as your computer. While such a great concept the technology needed is far from complete, but maybe one step closer thanks to the recent work to incorporate noise canceling technology into their design.

Quantum computing relies on quantum bits, the problem being is the “noise” these bits encounter. The noise is normally in the form of magnetic disturbances, and if that computer is calculating your finances or the medicine dose you need you really don’t want someone putting a fridge magnet nearby messing it up. Researchers at Florida State University National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab) have instead decided to cancel out this noise using the quantum equivalent of noise-cancelling headphones.

Thanks to specially designed tungsten oxide molecules, MagLab were able to keep a quantum bit working without interference for 8.4 microseconds. While that may not seem like long, in the quantum world that time could calculate any number of operations and is a step towards making quantum computing a feasible technology for corporate and public use.

With the likes of NASA and Google working on creating a usable quantum computer, I for one am hoping that I get to see a quantum computer within the next twenty years. A single quantum computer could replace all the advanced servers and systems used by Google and Microsoft, offering us the ability to miniaturize our systems, creating even smarter systems in even smaller packages.