Exotic device allows access to quantum computers from home

Previous quantum computers required huge amounts of space, but a new system will allow home users to access quantum computers through the cloud.

Researchers have developed a new communication model that could allow them to connect PCs to quantum computers securely over the internet.

Quantum computing has always required advanced equipment located in large laboratories, but new cloud technology could change that. (Photo: Getty Images).

The "blind quantum computing" technique uses fiber optic cables to connect a quantum computer to a photon detector and uses quantum memory - the equivalent of conventional computing memory for quantum computers. The device is connected directly to a PC, which can then perform operations on a remote quantum computer.

Quantum computers offer the potential for processing power far beyond conventional computers. But they are also extremely delicate and need to be cooled to near absolute zero to prevent outside interference with the quantum states. Regular computers can connect to servers over the internet to store information and access processing power. However, there is always a risk that information could be intercepted.

Connecting a PC to a quantum computer using the new method could provide a way for users to calculate remotely while keeping the structure hidden – while also allowing verification of calculations by embedding hidden tests .

In blind quantum computing, users connect to a quantum computer over the internet using a device that detects and reconfigures photons to control the quantum computer's qubits. Thus, the inputs, algorithms, and outputs are effectively hidden from the quantum computer.

Remote computers and quantum computers continuously exchange information throughout the calculation process. Therefore, quantum memory stores photonic states longer than previously required due to the communication process that takes place. The transmission between the PC and the quantum computer is also encrypted using one-time padding - a highly secure form of encryption.

This also promises a highly secure method of communication over the internet. In quantum computing, any attempt to copy or intercept data is detected, as every observation causes the quantum wave function to collapse and change the baseline state of subatomic particles. Therefore, if the server tries to see what is going on, the data will be corrupted.