Scientists have unveiled a new approach to powering quantum computers using quantum batteries — a breakthrough that could make future computers faster, more reliable and more energy efficient.
Quantum computers rely on the rules of quantum physics to solve problems that could transform computing, medicine, energy, finance, communications and many other fields in the years ahead.
But sustaining their delicate quantum states typically requires room-sized, energy-intensive cryogenic cooling systems, as well as a system of room-temperature electronics.
These infrastructure and energy requirements remain the biggest barriers to scaling up quantum computers, limiting their size and processing power, restricting their applications and slowing their path to market.
In a new study published in Physical Review X (PRX), a team of researchers at Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, University of Queensland and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), has theoretically shown how tiny quantum batteries could power a quantum computer — increasing its number of quantum bits (known as qubits) fourfold.
Dr James Quach, co-author of the study and CSIRO’s quantum batteries research lead, explained that the computers use significantly less energy because internal quantum batteries can recycle the energy in the system.
“Quantum batteries are small and mighty. Our findings bring us one step closer to solving the energy, cooling and infrastructure challenges restricting quantum computers,” said Dr Quach.
To read more, click here.