Archive for the ‘Quantum Computer’ Category

Decoding Quantum Computing: The Next Technological Leap | by Stern Alexander | Jan, 2024 – Medium

Unraveling the Mysteries and Potentials of Quantum Computing in Modern Tech Introduction: Setting the Quantum Stage

As we stand on the brink of another technological revolution, quantum computing continues to fascinate and perplex minds around the globe. The concept, which once seemed like nothing more than a far-fetched theory cut from the cloth of a science fiction novel, is metamorphosing rapidly from hypothesis to reality. As we delve into this discussion on quantum computing, its essential to first set the stage by understanding the basics and appreciating its potential to transform various sectors of human activity.

Traditionally, classical computers utilize a binary system of bits that represent either a 0 or a 1. These bits are the fundamental building blocks of any computational task we perform. They form the basis of any information processed or stored on our digital devices, from the words we type to the intricate graphic designs we formulate. This classical form of computing has served as the backbone of technology for the better part of a century. It provided us the power to put man on the moon, map out the human genome, and create the very Internet youre using right now.

Yet, computer scientists and physicists worldwide identified an impending limit to the capabilities of classical computing. As problems grow increasingly complex, so does the requisite number of bits needed to compute them. This predicament birthed the concept, development, and eventual implementation of quantum computing the next significant leap in technological advancement.

Quantum computing hinges on quantum bits known as qubits. Unlike classical bits, a qubit doesnt limit itself to a state of 0 or 1; instead, it can exist in both states simultaneously, thanks to a quantum phenomenon known as superposition. Furthermore, qubits have another quantum property called entanglement, allowing them to be interconnected despite the distance between them. This quantum superposition and entanglement afford quantum computers their extraordinary computational power and parallelism.

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Decoding Quantum Computing: The Next Technological Leap | by Stern Alexander | Jan, 2024 - Medium

Top 10 Ways Advance Quantum Computing Will Have Amazing Benefits In The Evolution Of Blockchain – Blockchain Magazine

Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology that enables secure and transparent record-keeping of digital transactions across a network of computers. It operates on a peer-to-peer network, where each participant (node) maintains an identical copy of the ledger. The blockchains strength lies in its immutability and cryptographic integrity, ensuring that once data is recorded,

Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology that enables secure and transparent record-keeping of digital transactions across a network of computers. It operates on a peer-to-peer network, where each participant (node) maintains an identical copy of the ledger. The blockchains strength lies in its immutability and cryptographic integrity, ensuring that once data is recorded, it cannot be altered retroactively.

Transactions in a are grouped into blocks and linked through cryptographic hashes, forming a continuous chain. This design enhances security, making it resistant to tampering and fraud. Consensus mechanisms, such as proof-of-work or proof-of-stake, are employed to validate and agree on the state of the ledger.

It finds applications in various industries beyond its original use in cryptocurrencies. It is used for smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), supply chain management, healthcare, and more, offering increased transparency, efficiency, and trust in digital interactions.

The evolution of blockchain technology has been a fascinating journey, marked by significant milestones, paradigm shifts, and the continuous quest for innovation. The story begins with the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009, where blockchain served as the decentralized ledger underpinning the worlds first cryptocurrency. Satoshi Nakamotos creation showcased the potential of a distributed, tamper-resistant ledger secured by cryptographic principles. In the ensuing years, the exploration of blockchain expanded beyond digital currencies, leading to the creation of alternative cryptocurrencies and the conceptualization of diverse use cases.

One of the pivotal moments in the evolution of blockchain occurred with the introduction of Ethereum in 2015. Ethereum revolutionized the landscape by introducing smart contracts, and programmable scripts that could execute decentralized agreements automatically. This development shifted the narrative from a focus solely on peer-to-peer transactions to the broader concept of decentralized applications (DApps), opening doors to a new era of blockchain innovation.

The year 2017 witnessed the rise of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), a fundraising method that leveraged its token issuance capabilities. ICOs became a catalyst for the creation of numerous projects, highlighting the growing interest and investment in the technology. However, this period also brought challenges, including regulatory scrutiny and the need for increased accountability within the blockchain ecosystem.

As blockchain matured, attention shifted toward enterprise solutions. Companies recognized the potential of blockchain to enhance transparency, traceability, and efficiency in various industries. Projects such as Hyperledger and R3 Corda emerged, offering tailored blockchain solutions for enterprise use. The collaborative spirit extended to the formation of consortiums like the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance (EEA), aimed at establishing standards and promoting interoperability in the enterprise space.

The year 2020 witnessed the meteoric rise of Decentralized Finance (DeFi). Blockchains potential to disrupt traditional financial systems became evident as DeFi platforms facilitated lending, borrowing, and trading without intermediaries. The DeFi movement showcased the power to democratize finance, providing users with unprecedented access to financial services. However, challenges such as security vulnerabilities and scalability issues underscored the need for further refinement.

In 2021, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) took center stage, demonstrating blockchains capacity to tokenize and authenticate unique digital assets. NFTs transformed industries like art, music, and gaming, allowing creators to monetize their digital creations and redefine ownership in the digital realm. The mainstream adoption of NFTs highlighted blockchains potential beyond financial applications, emphasizing its role in reshaping various sectors.

Amidst these developments, the environmental impact of proof-of-work consensus mechanisms drew scrutiny. In response, the blockchain community witnessed a shift toward more sustainable consensus models, with Ethereum initiating its transition to Ethereum 2.0, embracing proof-of-stake for improved scalability and reduced energy consumption.

Looking ahead, the evolution of blockchain continues with a focus on interoperability, cross-chain solutions, and the realization of Web3a vision of a more decentralized and user-centric internet. As blockchain matures, ongoing efforts aim to address scalability challenges, enhance sustainability, and foster a more interconnected and inclusive digital ecosystem. The journey of blockchain, from its nascent days as a ledger for digital currency to its current position at the forefront of technological innovation, reflects an enduring commitment to shaping a decentralized and transformative future.

Also, read- Top 10 Reasons Layer 2 Blockchain Is An Ideal And Amazing Setup For NFT Developers

The potential integration of advanced quantum computing with blockchain technology holds the promise of transformative advancements. While quantum computers are still in their early stages of development, their unique capabilities could significantly impact the evolution of blockchain in various ways:

While the practical realization of large-scale quantum computers is still a work in progress, preparing technology for the quantum era is essential. Collaboration between the quantum and communities can lead to the development of hybrid solutions that harness the strengths of both technologies, ensuring a secure and robust future for decentralized systems.

The evolution of technology brings about a multitude of benefits, influencing various sectors and aspects of the digital landscape. Here are key advantages resulting from the ongoing evolution of blockchain:

In conclusion, the ongoing evolution of technology represents a transformative force with far-reaching implications across various industries. The journey from its inception as the underlying technology for cryptocurrencies to its current state as a versatile and secure solution for decentralized applications has been marked by continuous innovation and adaptation. The benefits derived from this evolution touch upon fundamental aspects of modern digital interactions, fostering a more secure, transparent, and efficient ecosystem.

The core strengths, including enhanced security, transparency, and decentralization, contribute to the reliability and trustworthiness of digital transactions. The advent of smart contracts automates processes, reduces reliance on intermediaries, and improves overall operational efficiency. Innovations like decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) showcase the adaptability of blockchain, opening up new frontiers in the financial and creative realms.

Its role in global financial inclusion, tokenization of assets, and the creation of tamper-resistant systems, such as secure voting, underscores its potential to address societal challenges and democratize access to various services. The push towards sustainable blockchain initiatives reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility, aligning the technology with broader goals of eco-friendly solutions.

As interoperability solutions advance, networks become more interconnected, fostering collaboration and creating a foundation for future innovations. The tokenization of real-world assets and the rise of fractional ownership exemplify the democratization of traditionally exclusive markets.

Looking forward, the evolution is poised to continue, presenting opportunities for further enhancements in scalability, sustainability, and usability. As the technology matures, it will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized technologies, contributing to a more inclusive, transparent, and interconnected global digital landscape. The continued collaboration between the community, industry stakeholders, and regulators will be instrumental in realizing the full potential of technology and ensuring its positive impact on various facets of our digital lives.

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Top 10 Ways Advance Quantum Computing Will Have Amazing Benefits In The Evolution Of Blockchain - Blockchain Magazine

Fujitsu announces winners of the Fujitsu quantum simulator challenge – Fujitsu

Global competition to accelerate research on advanced quantum technologies using Fujitsus quantum simulator Fujitsu Limited

Tokyo, January 25, 2024

Fujitsu from February to September 2023 conducted the Fujitsu $100,000 Quantum Simulator Challenge, a global competition in which Fujitsu called members of the industry and academia to test Fujitsus 39 qubit quantum simulator on novel problems and applications. Fujitsu has officially announced four winning teams of the competition during a winning ceremony held at the Fujitsu Quantum Day on January 25, 2024 at De Oude Bibliotheek Academy in Delft, the Netherlands (1).

Fujitsu received applications from a total of 43 teams of startups and universities from 17 countries and regions. Among them, 20 teams that passed the first selection process where Fujitsu evaluated applicants use cases with regard to their innovativeness and how they applied Fujitsus quantum simulator to contribute to the solution of societal problems. After the contest period, participating teams submitted a report of their research results. Based on these results an award committee consisting of 13 members including researchers from Fujitsus Quantum Laboratory awarded four winner teams of the challenge. The committee awarded Quanscient Oy (2) from Finland with the first prize for its project quantum algorithms for fluid dynamics.

Participants in total spent about 56,000 hours using the quantum simulator during the contest, and created various use cases ranging from basic research results including error correction technology to algorithm development that contributes to solving societal problems. The total award amount is USD 100,000.

Fujitsu plans to hold the quantum simulator challenge again in 2024 and beyond, utilizing an enhanced quantum simulator with 40 qubits, one of the largest in the world (3). Moving forward, Fujitsu will continue to collaborate with advanced startups in the quantum computing field globally and lead R&D toward the practical implementation of quantum computing technologies.

Participants of the quantum simulator challenge have developed various advanced applications using Fujitsus quantum simulator. All these exciting use cases highlight the power of quantum computing to quickly and accurately contribute to the solution of societal problems. We will continue to be at the forefront of quantum computing by working with our customers and partners to drive the development of quantum simulators and quantum applications. The Fujitsu quantum simulator challenge showed the importance of community activities and competition for innovation, and we will continue to work with the quantum computing community to drive further progress in the field of quantum computing.

High error rates and scalability issues in quantum computing hardware represent ongoing tasks in the usage of current quantum computers. To this end, developers of quantum computing technologies are increasingly focusing on quantum simulators running on high-performance computers (HPC), and are exploring applications in various fields. Fujitsu has been working with multiple customers to develop pioneering quantum applications using its quantum simulator, a cluster system consisting of the FUJITSU Supercomputer PRIMEHPC FX700 equipped with the same A64FX CPU at the heart of supercomputer Fugaku (4). As feedback from users of quantum simulators represents an important key in the development of quantum applications, Fujitsu opened up some of its quantum simulator resources to the public and started the Fujitsu $100,000 Quantum Simulator Challenge to gain feedback from participating research institutions, universities, and companies competing for quantum application development in various fields.

Quantum algorithms for fluid dynamics

Quantum stability experiments on the Fujitsu quantum simulator

Optimized quantum kernels for improved credit card fraud detection

Interpretable and efficient control of smart cities with quantum computers

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The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 represent a set of common goals to be achieved worldwide by 2030. Fujitsus purpose to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation is a promise to contribute to the vision of a better future empowered by the SDGs.

Fujitsus purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$28 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: http://www.fujitsu.com.

Fujitsu Limited Public and Investor Relations Division Inquiries

All company or product names mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Information provided in this press release is accurate at time of publication and is subject to change without advance notice.

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Fujitsu announces winners of the Fujitsu quantum simulator challenge - Fujitsu

South Dakota looks to be a leader in quantum computing – mykxlg.com

Four public South Dakota universities would start offering research and training in an emerging field of technology that promises to solve complex problems in minutes instead of years, if lawmakers approve a $6 million plan.

Jose-Marie Griffiths, president of Dakota State University in Madison, is leading the charge to put the state at the forefront in quantum computers, which are far faster and more capable than any of the largest, most complex supercomputers already in use.

"We need to be in the game. And if we don't do this, when the federal monies start to flow for grants and contracts, we will miss out," she said. "If we don't have that basic introductory experience and expertise, then people are not going to come to us."

The entire push for a new Center for Quantum Information Science and Technology at DSU begins with a proposed $6 million state appropriations bill now under consideration by the South Dakota Legislature, Griffiths said.

The money won't buy a new building or even come close to affording an actual quantum computer, which in its early form costs up to $15 million and requires an extremely cold environment in which to operate.

Instead, the money would largely be used over four years to fund a handful of new faculty positions and graduate student slots at DSU, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City, the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, and South Dakota State University in Brookings. The legislative appropriations bill, Senate Bill 45, was set to be heard by the Senate Education Committee today (January 25).

Griffiths refers to the initial investment as "seed money" to get the state positioned and recognized as an early leader in the field of quantum computers, which experts say will contain the capacity to quickly run equations, manage and manipulate data and solve problems that might take modern supercomputers many years to solve, if ever.

The technology is rapidly evolving but is still a few years away from wider, practical usage, Griffiths said. The $6 million investment would show the federal government and companies like IBM or Honeywell that the South Dakota university system is a network they can rely on for new research, collaborations and education of future employees in a field expected to create tens of thousands of new high-paying jobs.

Gov. Kristi Noem shared her support for a quantum computer center during her annual state budget address in December.

We have an exciting new opportunity for the jobs of the future, Noem said. For too long, our kids were moving out of South Dakota to access exciting tech jobs.

As the power of computers grows, and as artificial intelligence plays a larger role in global society and economies, some scientists are urging caution in how these advanced technologies could be used either with intentional nefarious motives or by mistakes that manifest in negative outcomes.

Survey results from the Pew Research Center in August showed that 52 percent of Americans are more concerned than excited about artificial intelligence.

DSU already has established a 20-year track record of research and teaching in the field of cyber technology, which includes computer science and the new, rapidly expanding field of cybersecurity.

In 2022, DSU announced it will take the lead role in development of a $90 million expansion of cyber education and research through its Applied Research Lab, which includes a facility in Madison and a planned Sioux Falls lab that will create several hundred jobs and be a leader in the fields of technology and cybersecurity.

The quantum science center is the logical next step in the evolution of the university's mission, according to Ashley Podhradsky, vice president for research and economic development at DSU.

Partly as a result, the university has seen an increase in outside funding opportunities and internal growth, Griffiths said. DSU also has bucked the recent trend of declining enrollment at state universities that have seen slow, steady declines in attendance. DSUs total enrollment last fall was 3,509, an increase of 8.3 percent over 2022.

As an example of how state investment in research can lead to greater outside funding, Podhradsky noted that a 2020 state appropriation of $400,000 for the Cyber Incubator and Entrepreneurial Center at DSU has since led to more than $2 million in external sponsorships for the university.

When it comes to quantum, Griffiths and Podhradsky said the university has already heard from corporations, universities and government contractors exploring future partnerships with DSU due to its track record on cyber research and simply the announcement of the proposed quantum center. A possible partnership with a university in Australia is in the works.

"It's the foundation that we're developing for future partnerships," Podhradsky said. "They're looking at it initially as a strategic advancement, as a defining factor to differentiate their capabilities from others. And if we're able to secure that for them here in South Dakota, that makes our partnership that much more valuable to them."

Griffiths hopes the Legislature sees the value in the proposed $6 million appropriation for the quantum science center and approves the money so universities can immediately begin recruiting faculty and student researchers to build the momentum built for the future.

"We want to say, Let's get the expertise ready. And we're doing it in a shared way across four institutions, which I believe is the way to go. And then we will attract interest, Griffiths said. "I just think that we have a real opportunity here, and if we stop, we won't be ready when the time comes. And we'll miss the whole thing."

This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org.

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South Dakota looks to be a leader in quantum computing - mykxlg.com

The Science Behind the Swirling Patterns in Your Morning Coffee – AZoQuantum

The morning coffee will swirl with clouds of white liquid if a dash of creamer is added. But after a few seconds, those swirls will go, and it will be left with a regular brown liquid in a mug.

In the current study, Nandkishore and his colleagues used mathematical tools to envision a checkerboard pattern of theoretical qubits. The team discovered that if they arranged these zeros and ones in the right way, the patterns could flow around the checkerboard but might never disappear entirely. Image Credit: Stephen, Hart & Nandkishore

Information can quickly become jumbled in quantum computer chips, which are devices that tap into the strange features of the universe at its smallest scales. This limits the memory capacity of these devices.

That does not have to be the case, notes Rahul Nandkishore, Associate Professor of Physics at CU Boulder.

Using mathematical techniques, he and his colleagues have made a significant breakthrough in theoretical physics by demonstrating that it is possible to construct a situation in which milk and coffee do not mix, regardless of how vigorously they are stirred.

The team's research could result in improved quantum computer chips and give engineers new avenues to store data in minuscule items.

Think of the initial swirling patterns that appear when you add cream to your morning coffee; imagine if these patterns continued to swirl and dance no matter how long you watched.

Rahul Nandkishore, Senior Author and Associate Professor, Department of Physics, University of Colorado Boulder

To confirm that these infinite swirls are indeed feasible, more laboratory tests are required. However, the team's findings represent a significant advancement for physicists working on the project known as "ergodicity breaking," which aims to produce materials that stay out of equilibrium for extended periods of time.

The group's results were published in the journal "Physical Review Letters."

The study's universal issue in quantum computing is what drives co-authors David Stephen and Oliver Hart, postdoctoral physics researchers at CU Boulder.

Typically, "bits," which are represented by zeros or ones, power computers. Contrarily, Nandkishore clarified, quantum computers use "qubits," which are entities that can exist as either zero or one at the same moment due to the peculiarities of quantum mechanics.

Qubits have been created by engineers using a variety of materials, such as single atoms trapped by lasers or small components known as superconductors.

But qubits are readily confused, much like that cup of coffee. For instance, if every qubit is flipped to one, the qubits will ultimately flip back and forth until the chip as a whole becomes a disorganized mess.

In their recent research, Nandkishore and his colleagues may have identified a method to overcome the usual tendency of qubits to mix. The group conducted calculations suggesting that if scientists organize qubits into specific patterns, these configurations would preserve their information even when subjected to disturbances such as a magnetic field.

This finding raises the possibility of constructing devices with a form of quantum memory, according to the physicist.

This could be a way of storing information; you would write information into these patterns, and the information could not be degraded.

Rahul Nandkishore, Senior Author and Associate Professor, Department of Physics, University of Colorado Boulder

In the study, an array of hundreds to thousands of qubits arranged in a checkerboard-like pattern was seen by the researchers using mathematical modeling techniques.

They found that packing the qubits into a small space was the key. According to Nandkishore, qubits can affect the actions of their neighbors if they are near enough to one another. It is similar to a throng of people attempting to cram themselves into a phone booth. Even if some of those individuals are either standing straight or on their heads, they are unable to turn around without shoving into other people.

According to their calculations, if these patterns were formed precisely, they may flow around a quantum computing chip and never break down, much like the clouds of cream that swirl indefinitely throughout the coffee.

Nandkishore said, The wonderful thing about this study is that we discovered that we could understand this fundamental phenomenon through what is almost simple geometry.

The teams findings could influence a lot more than just quantum computers.

However, his recent discoveries add to the increasing amount of evidence that implies certain small matter organizations can resist that equilibrium, thereby defying some of the universe's most inflexible laws.

According to Nandkishore, nearly everything in the universe, from massive seas to coffee cups, tends to gravitate toward a state known as "thermal equilibrium." When you place an ice cube inside the mug, for instance, the heat from the coffee will cause the ice to melt and finally turn into a liquid that is all the same temperature.

We are not going to have to redo our math for ice and water. The field of mathematics that we call statistical physics is incredibly successful in describing things we encounter in everyday life. But there are settings where maybe it does not apply.

Rahul Nandkishore, Senior Author and Associate Professor, Department of Physics, University of Colorado Boulder

Stephen, D. T., et.al., (2024). Ergodicity Breaking Provably Robust to Arbitrary Perturbations. Physical Review Letters. doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.132.040401

Source: https://www.colorado.edu/

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The Science Behind the Swirling Patterns in Your Morning Coffee - AZoQuantum