IonQ has announced a partnership with NKT Photonics, a subsidiary of Hamamatsu Photonics, to provide advanced laser systems for its next-generation, data center-ready quantum computers. Under the agreement, NKT Photonics will deliver three prototype optical subsystems in 2025, designed specifically to support IonQ’s barium-based trapped-ion quantum computing systems. This collaboration aims to enhance the performance, scalability, and integration of IonQ’s systems for commercial applications, while also supporting IonQ’s long-term focus on developing enterprise-grade quantum solutions.

The partnership highlights IonQ’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimize quantum computing within conventional data center environments. NKT Photonics will utilize modular, fiber-based laser technologies that align with IonQ’s requirements for improved size, weight, power, and performance (SWAP). This modular approach enables easy rack mounting and supports IonQ’s scalability goals for its upcoming quantum computers, such as the IonQ Tempo, enabling wider industry access and use in advanced computational tasks.

This collaboration builds on IonQ’s recent strategic expansions, including opening the first U.S.-based manufacturing facility capable of producing quantum computers for commercial data centers. IonQ’s partnership with NKT Photonics underscores its efforts to integrate optical advancements in quantum technology, aiming to meet the rising demand for efficient and scalable quantum systems across various industries.

For more information, refer to IonQ’s press release here.

November 8, 2024