Mitsubishi Electric has announced that two of its research and development (R&D) projects have been selected by Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) for support under a quantum computing initiative officially known as the Research and Development Project to Strengthen Post-5G Information and Communication System Infrastructure (Accelerating the Development and Demonstration of Next-Generation Quantum Computers to Solve Societal Issues).
The two projects, which aim to scale up quantum computers, are: 1) Research and Development of Multi-Qubit-Control Laser Systems and 2) Development of Ultra-Compact, Multi-Channel, Low-Noise Amplifier Modules for Large-Scale Superconducting Quantum Computers.
Specifically, Mitsubishi Electric will conduct R&D to scale up three types of quantum computers: neutral-atom, trapped-ion and superconducting. For neutral-atom and trapped-ion quantum computers, which use lasers to control neutral atoms and ions, Mitsubishi Electric aims to develop high-power, highly stable laser systems by leveraging its laser technologies for machine tools, and low-latency control technologies using logic devices such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).
For superconducting quantum computers, which use microwaves to control qubits in cryogenic environments, Mitsubishi Electric will leverage its microwave IC technologies to develop ultra-compact, multi-channel, low-noise amplifier modules capable of operating in such environments. The aim is to scale up various types of quantum computers by enabling the control of larger numbers of neutral atoms, ions and superconducting qubits.
The two projects will promote technological validation within an industry-leading ecosystem involving collaboration with quantum-computing research institutions, including Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). By providing essential systems and components for scaling up multiple types of promising quantum-computing architectures, Mitsubishi Electric hopes to accelerate the realization of industrial applications using quantum computers.
Japan’s NEDO project is managed by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Japan’s largest public R&D funding and management agency operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
