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arXiv:1907.09832 · Journal of Physics B Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics

Continuous-variable quantum computing in the quantum optical frequency comb

Olivier Pfister

Published Oct 29, 2019• 124 citations
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Abstract

Abstract This topical review introduces the theoretical and experimental advances in continuous-variable (CV)—i.e. qumode-based in lieu of qubit-based—large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computing and quantum simulation. An introduction to the physics and mathematics of multipartite entangled CV cluster states is given, and their connection to experimental concepts is delineated. Paths toward fault tolerance are also presented. It is the hope of the author that this review attract more contributors to the field and promote its extension to the promising technology of integrated quantum photonics.

DOI
10.1088/1361-6455/ab526f

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Abstract Realizing a large-scale quantum computer requires hardware platforms that can simultaneously achieve universality, scalability, and fault tolerance. As a viable pathway to meeting these requirements, quantum computation (QC) based on continuous-variable optical systems has recently gained more attention due to its unique advantages and approaches. This review introduces several topics of recent experimental and theoretical progress in the optical continuous-variable QC that we believe are promising. In particular, we focus on scaling-up technologies enabled by time multiplexing, bandwidth broadening, and integrated optics, as well as hardware-efficient and robust bosonic quantum error-correction schemes.
Quantum computation presents incomparable advantages over classical computer in solving some complex problems. To realize large-scale quantum computation, it is required to establish a hardware platform that is universal, scalable and fault tolerant. Continuous-variable optical system, which has unique advantages, is a feasible way to realize large-scale quantum computation and has attracted much attention in recent years. Measurement-based continuous-variable quantum computation realizes the computation by performing the measurement and feedforward of measurement results in large-scale Gaussian cluster states, and it provides an efficient method to realize quantum computation. Quantum error correction is an important part in quantum computation and quantum communication to protect quantum information. This review briefly introduces the basic principles and research advances in one-way quantum computation based on cluster states, quantum computation based on optical Schrödinger cat states and quantum error correction with continuous variables, and discusses the problems and challenges that the continuous-variable quantum computation is facing.
Integrated photonic quantum chips have emerged as a promising platform for realizing fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers. Compared with bulk-optics systems, integrated photonics offer compact device footprints, enhanced programmability, and exceptional stability, attributes that are essential for executing large-scale and computationally demanding quantum tasks. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in both discrete-variable and continuous-variable universal photonic quantum computation. We survey progress in fault-tolerant architectures and state-of-the-art integrated platforms and highlight the key challenges that must be addressed to scale photonic systems toward full fault tolerance. Finally, we outline future opportunities and research directions aimed at bridging the gap between current proof-of-principle demonstrations and fully scalable quantum microprocessors.
Continuous-variable (CV) quantum light sources are the essential resource for quantum computation. Integrated CV quantum light sources offer a scalable pathway by harnessing low-loss nonlinear materials, versatile device architectures, and CMOS-compatible fabrication processes enabled by integrated photonics platforms. In this review, we briefly introduce recent progress on integrated CV quantum light sources, including single-mode squeezed states, two-mode squeezed states, and multimode entangled states. The key performance metrics of CV quantum light sources, such as the squeezing level, bandwidth, purity, and mode multiplexing, are analyzed. We highlight representative implementations of lithium niobate, silicon nitride, and silica platforms for CV quantum light sources and discuss major challenges for realizing integrated large-scale and fault-tolerant CV quantum computation.