Chapter 479 You Never Let Me Down
However, so far, the number of quantum computers is still very small, and the number of quantum computers that can be used in the world is only in the double digits.
This ensures that supercomputers still have their own value and will not be immediately eliminated by the times.
But compared to quantum computers, supercomputers no longer have any advantages. They mainly rely on the superposition of processors to achieve higher computing speeds, making them destined to be just a transitional product of the era.
However, although Xu You's idea is beautiful, it is not so easy to make it a reality.
"Xu You, let's not talk about how expensive a quantum computer is. It is also very large in size. An ordinary room certainly cannot accommodate such a large quantum computer. In addition, as far as I know, quantum computers have very demanding requirements for the operating environment. Generally, they can only be placed in special laboratories."
"Yes, what you said are all the characteristics of quantum computers. The first problem we need to solve is how to miniaturize quantum computers. Wenkun, do you know why quantum computers need to occupy such a large volume?"
"It's probably because the cooling device takes up most of the space inside the quantum computer."
"That's right. For superconducting quantum computers, in order to maintain the ambient temperature within the superconducting critical temperature range, the environment must be cooled at all times. Compared with other hardware, the cooling device takes up a larger space."
"Besides superconducting quantum computers, what about other types of quantum computers? As far as I know, optical quantum computers should not require cooling devices and can operate at room temperature, right?"
"It is true that optical quantum computers do not require cooling devices, but due to some characteristics of photons, optical quantum computers will also occupy a very large volume. In addition to the large footprint, the stringent requirements for the environment are also one of the key factors limiting the popularity of quantum computers."
Having said that, Luo Wenkun was also a little confused.
"So, is there a way to build a small quantum computer that is not very demanding about its surroundings?"
"There is indeed a way that makes this possible."
"Which method?" Luo Wenkun asked quickly.
" Ion trap." Xu You said lightly.
When it comes to ion traps, Luo Wenkun also has some impressions.
Although ion trap quantum computers are not as common as superconducting quantum computers, they are also one of the key research areas of scientists.
Even compared with the direction of photons, the technology of ion trap quanta was more mature before.
Until the rise of quantum computers such as Island, Vulture, and Suanjing, the research on ion trap quantum gradually became unpopular.
After explaining the research direction, Xu You also explained to Luo Wenkun why he chose the direction of ion trap quantum.
"The so-called ion trap is a device that confines ions in a limited space through an electromagnetic field. Since ions are singly charged atoms, quantum information is encoded in the electronic state of the ions. It is manipulated by using laser pulses to modify and control the state of the particles."
In this way , theoretically, the building blocks of quantum computers can be reduced to the greatest extent possible.
“I see. Once this project is successful, we won’t have to build a quantum laboratory to house a quantum computer.”
"Of course, in order to reduce the size of quantum computers as much as possible, the computing power of quantum computers will definitely be reduced. Compared with quantum computers such as Suanjing and Haidao, the small quantum computer we made will be much inferior in computing power, but it will still exceed any supercomputer on the market today."
"Can it be stronger than a supercomputer? Then why are you so dissatisfied? Xu You, according to your estimate, how big can these small quantum computers be?"
"Ideally, it can be made to be about the same size as a normal home desktop computer. Although it cannot be put directly into a computer bag, it can definitely be moved around," said Xu You.
It is not realistic to make it as convenient as a laptop with current technology.
But at least, the possibility of transportation has been established.
"Well, in this case, it will definitely be fine to put it at home. Xu You, what is your budget for this project?"
Xu You and Luo Wenkun discussed the budget figures, and Luo Wenkun didn't think it was a big problem.
"A research budget of one billion Chinese Yuan is something that Fulong Technology can easily come up with. Let's prepare to start this project."
At this time, Xu You thought for a while and said to Luo Wenkun:
"Wen Kun, there is one thing I need to explain to you in advance. Although quantum computers are expected to be popularized among the public, not many people will be able to use them for a while. Because of the high cost of production, each quantum computer will cost a lot of money, which is definitely not affordable for ordinary families, not to mention the maintenance costs and energy costs during the use phase. What I mean by this is that small quantum computers are not a profitable project."
After all, Fulun Technology is a company, so Xu You still needs to explain to Luo Wenkun in advance what the economic benefits of this project are.
But after hearing Xu You's words, Luo Wenkun burst into laughter.
"That's nothing. We have many projects that cost more than this in research and development. Even if this project won't make money for the company, I'm willing to spend the money in my own name. Just focus on your research."
"Okay, then I will prepare for the project. In addition, Academician Han Shubin's team has extensive experience in the field of quantum computers, and I hope to invite Academician Han Shubin's team to join us. Professor Wang Xiangwu's team at Jijing University also has outstanding achievements in the field of quantum physics, and their help is also needed for this research."
"No problem, you can decide these things yourself, and everything will proceed according to your ideas."
With Luo Wenkun's words, Xu You no longer had any worries about his research on this project.
If it was just about doing technical research, Xu You could solve these problems with his own abilities.
But if we want to truly put the project into production, we definitely need to rely on the strength of the company.
At this point, Xu You must get Luo Wenkun's support.
Fortunately, Luo Wenkun has never disappointed Xu You in running the company.
