Optics for optical quantum computing are the key to powerful computing systems with the potential to significantly outperform classical computers. Optics play a crucial role in manipulating light particles (photons) to solve complex problems that are beyond the reach of traditional computers. Here, let’s look at just what quantum computing is all about—- and why optics are needed to make it a success.
What is Optical Quantum Computing?
Optical quantum computing, also known as photonics quantum computing, uses photons to carry information. There are several types of quantum computing systems, and not all of them use optics in the same way. In linear optical quantum computing linear optical elements and optics such as tiny reciprocal mirrors and wavelengths are used to process quantum information. This is detected and stored using photon detectors and (theoretically at least) quantum memory. Optics for optical quantum computing can transform the way we detect, derive, and store information.