思科展示量子网络芯片

Core Viewpoint - Cisco Systems has introduced a prototype chip for connecting quantum computers and plans to establish a new lab in Santa Monica, California, to further research quantum computing. The chip utilizes some existing network chip technologies and aims to enable practical applications before quantum computers become mainstream, such as synchronizing trading times for financial firms or aiding scientists in detecting meteors [1][2]. Group 1: Quantum Chip Development - The chip developed in collaboration with researchers from the University of California, Santa Barbara, operates by entangling photon pairs and allows for instantaneous communication between quantum computers, regardless of distance [2][3]. - Cisco's chip prototype can generate over one million usable entangled photon pairs per channel per second, with a total of up to 200 million pairs across the chip, achieving a fidelity of 99% and operating at less than 1 milliwatt of power [7][8]. Group 2: Quantum Network Infrastructure - Cisco is focused on building a quantum network architecture that includes components like quantum switches and network interface cards (NICs), which are essential for creating a distributed quantum computing environment [8][10]. - The entangled chip is considered a foundational element for the quantum data centers that will form the backbone of a global quantum internet, enabling seamless connectivity across various quantum systems [6][10]. Group 3: Industry Context and Competition - Major tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft have recently launched quantum chips, indicating a competitive landscape in the quantum computing sector, with significant advancements in error correction and other critical challenges [3][4]. - Cisco aims to create a vendor-agnostic framework compatible with various quantum computing technologies, allowing for broader collaboration and integration within the industry [11].