Quantum Computing

Photonics qubits use light particles (photons) to store and process information. This technology is promising because it often operates at room temperature. In addition, photons can be transmitted over long distances in fiber optic cables and are less susceptible to environmental influences.

Fraunhofer IPMS develops integrated, monolithic control technologies for the optoelectronic components of photonic quantum computers, as well as assembly and connection technology.

Neutral atom qubits use electrically neutral atoms as quantum bits. They are trapped in optical traps and controlled by lasers to perform calculations and generate entanglement. This approach offers advantages such as high scalability and long coherence times.

Fraunhofer IPMS develops spatial light modulators (SLMs) for the programmable modulation of light intensity or phase. To enable scalable and efficient quantum computing processes, these components must also be suitable for specific wavelength ranges (such as the UV range). In addition, they must enable fast and extremely accurate light modulation. Fraunhofer IPMS offers phase-shifting, diffractive dip mirror MEMS SLMs that open up new dimensions in terms of precision and scalability. 

In addition to developing application-specific MEMS area light modulators, Fraunhofer IPMS also offers pilot production of the new components in the institute's own clean room using industry-standard processes. This ensures that a sufficient number of area light modulators are available for the first product series following a development project. For high volumes, IPMS also supports the transfer of the process to an external commercial MEMS foundry.

Paper: Dynamical spatial light modulation in the ultraviolet spectral range (Physical Review Applied)