Superconducting quantum computers are cool in the truest sense of the word: their computing units, known as qubits, only work at temperatures of around -273 degrees Celsius, just above absolute zero. In their talk, Daniela Zahn and Elias Meltzer offered fascinating insights into research in the millikelvin range. They explained how quantum computers work, why superconducting quantum computers need such low temperatures, and how signals travel to and from the quantum processors inside the cryostats.
The focus was on one of Fraunhofer EMFT's most promising developments: foil-based superconducting cables for controlling and reading out qubits. These flexible cables free up space inside the cryostat while also reducing heat input. This is a key requirement for equipping quantum computers with ever more qubits, since practical, fault-tolerant quantum computers will only become possible with a very large number of reliably controllable qubits.
After the talk, visitors split into small groups to tour the cryo lab and the flex lab. Daniela Zahn and Martijn Goedbloed shared insights into the work on site and answered numerous questions from the highly engaged participants.
Further information:
You can find all events in the "MQV Einblicke" series, with registration links, here: https://www.munich-quantum-valley.de/de/bildung/oeffentlichkeitsarbeit/mqv-einblicke