A groundbreaking discovery in quantum computing has emerged, as researchers demonstrate a new way to build quantum computers using everyday components like digital displays, lasers, and simple lenses.
The research team, led by Mwezi Koni at Wits University, has developed a quantum computer that harnesses specially structured light beams to carry and process complex information. Unlike traditional computers that work with binary digits (0s and 1s), this system can handle 16 different levels of information simultaneously.
"We've shown that our system can work with 16 different levels of information," said Koni. "In theory, we could expand this to handle millions of levels, which would be a game-changer for processing complex information."
The innovation centers on manipulating light beams to have specific shapes and structures, allowing them to carry complex quantum information. When combined with common optical components, these structured light beams can perform sophisticated mathematical operations using quantum principles like superposition - where a system exists in multiple states simultaneously.
The team validated their quantum computer by successfully running the Deutsch-Jozsa algorithm, a complex calculation that determines whether a function produces constant or varying outputs. The results showed performance capabilities beyond what classical computers can achieve.
"Traditional computers work like switchboards, processing information as simple yes or no decisions. Our approach uses laser beams to process multiple possibilities simultaneously, dramatically increasing computing power," explained Isaac Nape, a quantum technology expert involved in the study.
This development could democratize access to quantum computing technology, particularly benefiting research facilities in regions where expensive quantum systems are currently out of reach. The research findings appear in APL Photonics journal.
The breakthrough demonstrates that quantum computing capabilities can be achieved using relatively simple, accessible components - potentially opening new frontiers in quantum research and applications.
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