Neutral Atom Qubits

Overview

Neutral atom quantum computers are gaining significant attention for their exceptional scalability. This scalability is achieved through two primary techniques: the optical lattice method, which arranges atoms in a regular grid using laser fields, and the optical tweezer-based approach. The optical tweezer system is particularly advantageous because it allows for easy scaling of the qubit count. By simply increasing the laser intensity, the number of optical tweezers—and therefore qubits—can be expanded without difficulty.

Another notable benefit of the neutral atom platform is the strong connectivity between qubits. Using holographic methods, optical tweezers can be arranged in three-dimensional space, enabling entanglement and interaction between all qubits. This is particularly advantageous for solving complex combinatorial optimization problems and similar computational challenges.

SDT combines expertise in laser manipulation and optical trapping with advanced FPGA-based digital and analog technology, contributing to the development of neutral atom quantum computing. Leveraging these capabilities, SDT aims to develop a 3D neutral atom quantum computer with 300 qubits by the end of 2026.

R&D collaboration with the Department of Physics at Korea University

The neutral atom quantum platform stands out for its exceptional scalability and connectivity, making it a highly promising technology that has recently gained significant attention. However, challenges remain in the smooth supply of key materials, components, and equipment, which are impeding research progress.

At the heart of this platform is the interaction between atoms and lasers, which requires advanced technologies in several areas. These include laser technology, optics, electronics for laser control, and vacuum technology. SDT is working in collaboration with Professor Minhyuk Kim from the Department of Physics at Korea University to develop an integrated electronic module that coordinates all the necessary components for neutral atom quantum experiments. Additionally, SDT is creating an optical module, which includes the development of an external resonator laser with a narrow linewidth to control atomic qubits, as well as experimental setups designed to stabilize laser frequencies.

The neutral atom quantum platform boasts superior scalability and connectivity compared to other platforms and has recently received a lot of attention. However, the supply of key materials, components, and equipment is not smooth, leading to difficulties in research.

The neutral atom quantum platform's core technology is the implementation of interactions between atoms and lasers, and the components and equipment required for this can be broadly categorized into laser technology, optics and electronics material technology for laser control, and vacuum technology. SDT is developing an electronic module that coordinates all components of the neutral atom quantum platform for experiments in collaboration with Professor Kim Min-hyuk from the Department of Physics at Korea University, as well as an optical module that includes the development of an external resonator laser with a narrow linewidth to control atomic qubits and an experimental setup to stabilize laser frequencies.

Image courtesy of Prof. Minhyuk Kim

SDT’s Partnership with KRISS, Korea University and LG Electronics

In December 2024, SDT formed a four-party partnership with KRISS (Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science), Korea University, and LG Electronics, aimed at advancing research and development and commercializing neutral atom quantum computing technology. This agreement will establish an industry-academia-research cooperation system, involving leading domestic experts, and accelerate the development of neutral atom-based quantum computing technology

Korea University and KRISS will focus on the development of neutral atom-based quantum processing units (QPUs), while LG Electronics will handle middleware development and technology integration. SDT will lead hardware development and provide cloud services, with a particular focus on formulating strategies for the commercialization of the quantum computing ecosystem. Additionally, this collaboration will serve as a critical foundation for strengthening South Korea's quantum technology competitiveness, through activities such as promoting research outcomes, establishing partnerships with global research institutions and companies, and cultivating specialized talent.