Impakt 2

Electronics Addressing the Challenges of Quantum Technologies

Intermediary Institution: National Centre for Research and Development
Programme: Smart Growth Operational Programme 2014–2020
Priority Axis: Support for R&D Activities Undertaken by Enterprises
Project Duration: 36 months
Project Website: https://www.gov.pl/web/ncbr/szybka-sciezka-dla-mazowsza-31112020

PROJECT OBJECTIVE:

The objective of the project is to investigate, refine and commercialize specific electronic solutions addressing two fundamental requirements of applications that utilize quantum phenomena:

• control through fast and precise generation of low-noise signals

• control with ultra-precise time synchronization.

Such hardware solutions are essential for research and the development of quantum technologies based in particular on ion traps and superconducting qubits. These technologies are used in rapidly advancing quantum computers, atomic clocks, time and frequency standards, high-sensitivity sensing systems, gravimeters, and the study of the chemical properties of particles and biomolecules.

The project will make use of models of control and measurement solutions available under an open hardware licence (OHL). These models were developed in response to the needs of research institutions in both Europe and the United States conducting research on ion-trap systems. However, they remain insufficiently refined (TRL 3–TRL 5) and are not yet suitable for commercial production. As part of the project, these electronic solution models will be investigated and refined, and the resulting prototypes will undergo professional testing in the R&D department.

The project will also involve the development of professional testing methods for the new solutions, which will serve as the basis not only for research activities but also for subsequent commercialization. The project will result in a portfolio of new products (TRL 7).

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The project will involve, among other things, the use of state-of-the-art FPGA SoC devices. The developed solutions will enable the distribution of a reference frequency signal and precise alignment of the phase of generated signals across a system comprising hundreds or even thousands of control channels, regardless of cable length or position. The research conducted within the project will help overcome challenges in maintaining reference frequency precision under varying operating conditions, across a wide range of temperatures and loads.

The solution will be based on the White Rabbit system, which will be optimized in terms of latency and jitter to meet the requirements of quantum applications. To this end, simulations and sensitivity analyses will be carried out to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying processes and optimize the design for available manufacturing technologies. The feasibility of using the MTCA standard for an AWG (Arbitrary Waveform Generator) device will also be investigated to ensure high performance, low noise levels and high signal-processing speeds.