New interface to easily control a quantum computer from a conventional computer

CHRONOS-Q is a quantum controller that acts as a translator between conventional computing systems and quantum computing systems. This new device will allow users to control quantum computers easily and efficiently using their conventional laptops and desktop computers.

CHRONOS-Q is the work of engineers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore and the National University of Singapore (NUS), and is commercialized through the new company AQSolotl, promoted by the two aforementioned universities.

Unlike traditional computers, which operate on a binary system of zeros and ones, quantum computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to achieve much higher computing power. Instead of binary bits, quantum computers use quantum bits (qubits), which can exist in multiple states at the same time, allowing them to represent multiple possibilities simultaneously.

Quantum computers will solve problems that were previously considered unsolvable because they were beyond the reach of conventional computers.

Thus, quantum computing will open new possibilities in fields such as cryptography, advanced simulations and artificial intelligence. In theory, quantum computers could be thousands of times more powerful than today’s fastest conventional computers, at least for some complex computing tasks.

Compared to other quantum controllers, CHRONOS-Q stands out for its speed, low cost and small size. As an example of its speed, determining the states of qubits takes less than 14 nanoseconds. A nanosecond is one billionth of a second). This great speed allows for real-time feedback.

Close-up of the CHRONOS-Q quantum controller, which allows users to control quantum computers easily and efficiently using their traditional laptops and desktop computers. (Photo: NTU Singapore)

The controller is designed to easily adapt to new configurations as the power of quantum computers increases. CHRONOS-Q also has customizable and upgradeable firmware, and can accommodate additional modules in the future.

The founders of AQSolotl include Rainer Dumke of NTU and Patrick Bore, formerly of NUS. (Fountain: NCYT by Amazings)