Researchers from PASQAL and LINKS with support from CINECA have successfully implemented a noise-resilient, hybrid quantum-classical algorithm on a PASQAL quantum computer. This algorithm addresses the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) assignment problem in cellular networks, which is crucial for efficient data transfer as smartphones move from one cell tower to another. The algorithm exploits the characteristics of the PASQAL machine, making it resistant to variations in the results. It’s particularly effective for large graphs where classical computing methods would be exponentially slower. The PASQAL hardware, which uses lasers to capture and manipulate atoms, is ideal for solving graph-based problems like PCI impairments.
The researchers ran an experiment to solve four graphs using the hybrid quantum-classical algorithm. In all cases, the algorithm successfully found an optimal coloring solution, demonstrating its reliability even in the presence of noise in the Quantum Process Unit (QPU). This novel algorithm lays the groundwork for efficiently solving the PCI assignment problem in cellular networks and has potential applications in other areas. The use of quantum devices and neutral atom technologies may be key to solving pressing industrial and scientific problems.
Additional information can be found in a news release available here. Also a technical blog that provides details about the algorithm has been posted on the PASQAL website here.
February 8, 2024
