Electronics
Canadian Physicists Achieve First Electrically-Controlled Silicon Quantum Device, Paving Way for Scalable Quantum Computing
Simon Fraser University’s Quantum Technology Lab, in collaboration with Canadian quantum firm Photonic Inc., has announced a transformative advance for quantum computing: the first-ever electrically-injected single-photon source in silicon. This breakthrough detailed in the journal Nature Photonics, marks a pivotal step toward practical and scalable quantum computers and quantum networks, with the work drawing significant attention in Canada’s scientific community .
A New Era for Quantum Devices
Quantum computers promise to revolutionize fields from chemistry and medicine to cybersecurity by harnessing the strange rules of quantum mechanics for exponentially greater processing power. At the heart of this breakthrough is the silicon color center qubit, specifically the ‘T center’, a quantum bit that can be manipulated by both light (optically) and, now, by electrical control. Previous quantum devices often relied solely on lasers to control these qubits. By achieving direct electrical control, the SFU-Photonic team has greatly expanded the functionality and potential scalability of silicon-based quantum devices .
Key Features of the New Quantum Device
| Feature | Previous Silicon Devices | New SFU-Photonic Device |
|---|---|---|
| Qubit Control | Optical (laser only) | Optical & Electrical (dual) |
| Photon Source | Not electrically injected | Electrically-injected single photon |
| Scalable Manufacturing | Limited | Compatible with semiconductor processes |
| Application Potential | Experimental | Toward scalable quantum |
According to Daniel Higginbottom, assistant professor of physics at SFU, “Previously, we controlled these qubits, called T centres, optically (with lasers). Now we’re introducing electrical control as well, which increases the device capability and is a step toward applications in a scalable quantum computer.” Lead author and PhD candidate Michael Dobinson added that this innovation opens the door to new applications and the possibility of integrating these devices into larger quantum processors.
Why Silicon and Electrical Control Matter ?
Silicon is the backbone of modern electronics, making it a natural choice for scalable quantum technology. Until now, controlling quantum bits in silicon required complex optical setups. The new device uses a “diode nanocavity” structure, allowing for electrical injection of single photons—a crucial requirement for quantum information processing and secure quantum communications. This practical approach increases compatibility with existing semiconductor manufacturing, making large-scale quantum computers more feasible .
Implications for Quantum Computing and Networking
The ability to electrically manipulate silicon qubits solves a major challenge in quantum device engineering, providing a pathway to integrating thousands or millions of qubits on a chip. This could accelerate the development of quantum computers capable of solving problems that are intractable for today’s supercomputers, and enable next-generation quantum networks for ultra-secure communications.
Canadian researchers and industry leaders are lauding the advance, with many noting its potential to position Canada at the forefront of quantum innovation. While public discussion remains limited outside specialized science and regional outlets, the breakthrough is expected to spark broader interest as the technology matures.
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