A quantum internet is closer to reality, thanks to this switch

When quantum computers become more powerful and widespread, they will need a robust quantum internet to communicate. Purdue University engineers have addressed an issue barring the development of quantum networks that are big enough to reliably support more than a handful of users.

The method, demonstrated in a paper published in Optica, could help lay the groundwork for when a large number of quantum computers, quantum sensors and other quantum technology are ready to go online and communicate with each other. Using a programmable wavelength-selective switch can help increase the number of users in a quantum network without increasing photon loss from the switching device, a new study shows.

The team deployed a programmable switch to adjust how much data goes to each user by selecting and redirecting wavelengths of light carrying the different data channels, making it possible to increase the number of users without adding to photon loss as the network gets bigger. If photons are lost, quantum information is lost – a problem that tends to happen the farther photons have to travel through fiber optic networks.

Read more at Purdue University

Image Credit: Pixabay

-jk-