Quantum Computing Basics

Quantum computing represents a revolutionary approach to computing that functions through

fundamentally distinct mechanisms compared to standard everyday computers. Quantum computers
operate with qubits instead of the traditional bits that represent either 0 or 1.

Qubits (Quantum Bits)

The basic unit of information used in quantum computing is known as a qubit.

The basic data unit in traditional computing systems represents information with only two possible
states which are 0 or 1. Superposition is the property that allows a qubit to exist in both 0 and 1
states simultaneously.
Picture a coin resting flat which displays either heads (0) or tails (1). A qubit functions as a spinning
coin which exists in a combination of heads and tails until it is observed.

Superposition
Superposition allows a qubit to exist in state 0, state 1 or in any possible combination of both
simultaneously. Quantum computers achieve simultaneous processing of vast amounts of
information because of their ability to handle multiple states at one time unlike regular computers.

Entanglement
Entanglement is a special connection between qubits. The entanglement of two qubits creates a link
where the state of one qubit instantly determines the state of the other qubit regardless of distance
between them.
It’s like having two magic dice. When two entangled qubits are separated into different rooms one
will always show a 6 if the other does. Quantum computers can solve complex problems more
quickly than classical computers because of this strange link.

Quantum Gates
Quantum gates function similarly to AND, OR, and NOT gates in traditional computers but operate on
qubits.
They control how qubits change their states.
Quantum gates enable qubits to enter superpositions through rotation and establish entanglement
between them while also altering their probabilities of existing in either state 0 or 1. Quantum
circuits consist of programs executed on quantum computers and they are constructed using these
gates.

CMOS Compatibility and Scaling in Quantum Computing

CMOS—short for Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor—is the go-to technique behind

almost every chip you’d find in today’s devices, be it phones, laptops, or even servers. Lately,
scientists have started tinkering with this familiar approach to see if it can work its magic in quantum
computing. Basically, they figure that if you repurpose a method everyone already relies on, making
quantum chips might end up being faster, cheaper, and, well, more capable of scaling into large
systems (that is, building bigger, more interconnected setups). It’s an intriguing twist—mixing a tried-
and-true recipe with the bold, new world of quantum technology.

Error Correction in Quantum Computing

Quantum systems pack immense power yet can be really delicate. Even a slight burst of heat, an
offbeat noise, or a tiny vibration may unsettle qubits more than you’d expect. Regular bits just sit at 0
or 1, but qubits tend to drift into unstable states—think superposition, or even entanglement—and
even a small slip-up might wreck the whole calculation. It's a tricky balancing act, where high
performance meets a surprising vulnerability.

Despite their power, quantum computers are extremely sensitive. Qubit errors can be caused by
even small disturbances, such as heat or electrical noise. Scientists have developed clever methods
to safeguard and rectify quantum information in order to address this. There are two primary tactics:

✅ Surface codes

✅ Architectures that are fault-tolerant

Let's take a basic look at both.

Fixing Errors with Surface Codes Without Changing the Data

Directly staring at a qubit can cause problems in quantum computers. Rather than reading the actual
data, surface codes use nearby qubits to monitor for errors.

Imagine it as a grid of qubits, with some holding the data and others acting as "watchers" to detect
changes in their surroundings. The system can identify the issue and resolve it if something odd
occurs.

Why it's beneficial

• Identifies errors without altering the data.

Excellent for chips with closely spaced qubits; currently utilized in actual quantum hardware.

Fault-Tolerant Architectures
.quantum computers are delicate, even minor mistakes can cause problems. A fault-tolerant
architecture is designed to continue operating even in the event that certain components
malfunction.It creates a stronger "logical qubit" by combining multiple qubits rather than using a
single qubit for every bit of data. Additionally, it performs unique tasks that prevent errors from
propagating throughout the system.

Intel's new quantum research chip, named Tunnel Falls, is a 12-qubit silicon chip now available to
quantum researchers. This chip utilizes Intel's advanced transistor fabrication, including extreme
ultraviolet lithography (EUV) and advanced materials processing.

Here are some key facts:

 Tunnel Falls is fabricated on 300-millimeter wafers.

  The chip functions as a single electron transistor.

 Intel can manufacture Tunnel Falls with minimal changes to standard CMOS logic processing.

 Silicon spin qubits, used in Tunnel Falls, are significantly smaller (approximately 50nm x
50nm) than other qubit types, potentially enabling better scaling.

Imec’s Quantum Computing Developments (Short Summary)

Imec is building quantum chips using standard semiconductor (CMOS) tech, which makes large-
scale production possible.

 They create silicon spin qubits on 300mm wafers, similar to how regular computer chips are
made.

 Their qubits have very low noise, which helps keep quantum information stable.

 Imec is also working on superconducting qubits with better material quality for longer
coherence.

 They're developing 3D integration and cryogenic electronics, so qubits and control systems
can work closely together in cold environments.

These efforts bring quantum computing closer to real-world, scalable system

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From the paper, qubits (quantum bits) are described as the core units of quantum information.
Unlike classical bits that are either 0 or 1, qubits can be in a superposition of both states. They also
interact through entanglement, which links their behavior across space. These properties allow
quantum computers to perform complex tasks more efficiently than classical computers.