Univ of Penn sent quantum network packet over Internet Protocol (IP)
For years we have heard how nuanced Quantum computing was and that it would obsolete legacy computing install bases. Well, Univ of Pennsylvania just sent quantum networking requests onto commercial fiber-optic cables using the same Internet Protocol (IP) that powers today's World Wide Web. That to me is amazing! To think that the Quantum internet could evolve from the legacy ARAPNET.
Recall Quantum computing is different, here's some of how it is different
Quantum signals rely on pairs of "entangled" particles, they are tightly coupled. So much so, linked that changing one instantly affects the other. Harnessing that property could allow quantum computers to link up and pool their processing power, enabling advances like faster, more energy-efficient AI or designing new drugs and materials beyond the reach of today's supercomputers.
Let's dig deeper into the experiment
The experiment was detailed in a report in Science magazine. Their work shows that fragile quantum signals can run on the same infrastructure that carries everyday web traffic. The team tested their approach on Verizon's campus fiber-optic network. The Penn team's tiny "Q-chip" coordinates quantum and classical data and, crucially, speaks the same language as the modern web. That approach could pave the way for a future "quantum internet," which scientists believe may one day be as transformative as the dawn of the online era.
Univ. of Penn's work shows, for the first time on live commercial fiber, that a chip can not only send quantum signals but also automatically correct for noise, bundle quantum and classical data into standard internet-style packets, and route them using the same addressing system and management tools that connect everyday devices online. By showing an integrated chip can manage quantum signals on a live commercial network like Verizon's, and do so using the same protocols that run the classical internet, they have taken a key step toward larger-scale experiments and a practical quantum internet. This is a huge development, the networking can utilize or co-exist with legacy networking and Internet offerings.
Summary
Thinking back to the early days when Universities were connecting to the ARAPNET these must have some of those same vibes and jitters (no pun intended). Knowing network interoperability can occur should bring cost and time savings for all things Quantum related. Let's see who brings these types of tests to CPU and GPU architectures.
Credits - BLOG image - Quantum.org.pk = ALL RIGHTS REMAIN!
