In the quantum computing race, there are many different approaches being taken by companies hoping to solve the many problems they face in making it commercially viable. One of these approaches is called trapped-ion quantum computing. Read on to learn more about this type of quantum computing, how it works, and what makes it different from other types.
What is trapped-ion quantum computing?
Trapped-ion quantum computing is a type of quantum computing with components that have been in research and development for decades. The ion trap that the system is named for was actually invented in the 1950s by Wolfgang Paul, who subsequently won a Nobel Prize for his work in 1985.
Trapped-ion computers currently offer some of the best qubit quality today, even though it is still very early days. In addition, these machines don't need to be super-refrigerated to operate properly. They can be used at or near room temperature, creating a significant advantage over other systems that require specialized refrigeration units for cooling.
What is trapped-ion quantum computing used for?
Although it is relatively slower than many other methods of quantum computing, trapped-ion quantum computing is also more stable, giving it advantages in some of the same realms as other quantum computers. These include solving problems in chemistry and physics, and helping to develop more reliable qubits.
Down the line, it's hoped that trapped-ion quantum computing can be used in more commercial and government applications, including developing new medications, cryptography, and optimizing processes. There's also some predicted use for quantum computing as artificial intelligence advances, but it will remain to be seen what type of quantum computer is best for this application.
How is trapped-ion quantum computing different from superconducting quantum computing?
Trapped-ion quantum computing and superconducting quantum computing are both quantum computing technologies that are in their experimental stages. They both utilize things like qubits to help record and process information, and are specialized pieces of equipment. Trapped-ion quantum computers, however, are more stable and can be run at or near room temperature, making them a realistic early candidate for more widespread use.
Superconducting quantum computers, on the other hand, are much faster, but more volatile, and must be operated in extreme cold. They're very good at doing complex tasks quickly, if they can maintain stability throughout the process.
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Why trapped-ion quantum computing matters to investors
There are many types of competing quantum computing technologies right now, so it makes sense to pay attention to what is moving into more practical applications and where. Although still in development and possibly decades from having practical uses, trapped-ion quantum computers have one main advantage: They can operate at room temperature. Because they can be operated at room temperature, it may be easier to implement trapped-ion quantum computers in a wider range of facilities, since no special equipment will be needed to keep them supercooled.
They still have significant downsides, like their relative lack of speed compared to competitors, but for some applications, this won't matter. Regardless of your opinion on this emerging technology, quantum computing stocks should be approached as a long-term and highly risky investment, so go slow, choose your plays carefully, and plan to hold on to them for a decade or more to see what they become.
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