Core Insights - The University of Pennsylvania team achieved a groundbreaking advancement in quantum communication, successfully transmitting quantum signals over commercial fiber networks using standard internet IP protocols [1][3][6] - The key innovation is the compact "Q chip," which coordinates quantum and classical information, ensuring compatibility with existing network protocols and enabling automatic error correction with a transmission fidelity exceeding 97% [3][4][9] Technical Breakthrough - The testing was conducted on a one-kilometer commercial fiber network at Verizon's campus, demonstrating stable and efficient performance [1][3] - The "Q chip" is considered a foundational element for the future "quantum internet," potentially leading to transformative changes similar to the advent of the internet [3][6][14] Challenges and Solutions - Quantum networks face challenges due to the delicate nature of quantum particles, which lose their special states upon measurement [7][11] - The "Q chip" addresses these challenges by coordinating conventional light signals with quantum particles, allowing for effective communication without damaging the quantum information [7][9] Future Prospects - Currently, the network consists of a single server and node connected by one kilometer of Verizon fiber, but expanding the network is feasible by producing more chips [11][13] - A significant obstacle remains in transmitting quantum signals without disrupting entanglement, although some teams have managed to transmit "quantum keys" for secure communication [11][13]

Core Insights - A team of engineers from the University of Pennsylvania has successfully transitioned quantum network technology from the laboratory to practical application, marking a significant step towards building a future quantum internet [1] - The core achievement is a micro "Q chip" that coordinates the transmission of quantum information with classical data, allowing quantum signals to communicate using the language of modern internet protocols [1] Group 1 - The Q chip has been demonstrated to send quantum signals over commercial fiber networks while automatically correcting noise during transmission, packaging quantum and classical data into standard internet data packets [1] - The integration of the Q chip allows for the management of quantum signals on commercial networks using the same protocols as classical internet, indicating a move towards larger-scale experiments and practical quantum internet applications [1][2] - The challenge of expanding quantum signals has been addressed by the development of the Q chip, which coordinates a mixed information flow of classical signals and quantum particles [1] Group 2 - The mechanism of the Q chip is likened to railway transport, where classical signals act as the locomotive, guiding and navigating, while quantum information is akin to sealed containers that are securely delivered [2] - The Q chip is made from silicon-based materials and manufactured using established semiconductor processes, providing a realistic foundation for large-scale production and widespread application of the technology [2] - Currently, the network connects two buildings with one server and one node, utilizing approximately one kilometer of fiber, and can be expanded by producing more chips to integrate with existing urban fiber networks [2]