SemiQon, a Finnish quantum hardware innovator, has unveiled the first CMOS transistor fully optimized for cryogenic conditions. Designed for operation at temperatures of 1 Kelvin or below, these transistors significantly enhance the scalability and efficiency of quantum computing and other advanced computing applications. This technology will be used to provided cryo-CMOS integrated circuits for functions such as multiplexing and demultiplexing. Initially, they will use this technology to develop custom chips for select customers in the quantum computing realm. Later, the company plans on developing a line of standard chips that they can sell to customers including those companies working in areas besides quantum computing.
Key features of their technology include:
- 1,000x lower heat dissipation compared to traditional transistors, enabling integration with cryogenic quantum processors without overheating issues.
- 0.1% of the power consumption of conventional room-temperature transistors, leading to significant energy and cooling cost reductions.
- Compatibility with existing CMOS manufacturing processes, allowing for mass production without new infrastructure investments.
The innovation addresses a critical bottleneck in quantum computing by simplifying the control and readout electronics needed for large-scale quantum processors, a step essential for achieving fault tolerance. Additionally, the technology has potential applications in high-performance computing (HPC) and spaceborne systems, offering cost savings and environmental benefits through reduced energy use.
SemiQon plans to deliver the first batch of cryo-optimized transistors to customers in 2025 with a potential to help overcome the scaling challenges that are present today in quantum computer development.
More information about SemiQon can be seen on their website here.
November 26, 2024
Leave A Comment