New development controls individual bits in quantum computers

摘要

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a new way of manipulating a single bit in a quantum processor without disturbing the information stored in its nearby bits. By using polarized light to create effective magnetic fields, the scientists hope to bring quantum computers closer to reality.rnThe challenge to make a quantum computer work is to maintain control of the information carriers, the "switches" in a quantum processor while isolating them from the environment. These quantum bits, or "qubits," have the uncanny ability to exist in both on and off positions at the same time, enabling quantum computers solve problems traditional computers find intractable -such as breaking complex cryptographic codes.