Designing a Quantum Computer

 in ACM TECHNEWS  Implications? 

Quantum Computer Helps Design Better Quantum Computer  By New Scientist, September 22, 2021

Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China in Shanghai used a quantum computer to design a quantum bit (qubit) that could power better quantum systems.

The resulting plasonium qubit is smaller, less noisy, and can retain its state longer than the team's current qubit model.  The researchers used a variational quantum eigensolver algorithm to simulate particle behavior in quantum circuits and smooth out negative properties while developing advantageous features, without needing to build many physical prototypes.

Each plasonium qubit is only 240 micrometers long, or 40% the size of a transmon qubit, which will allow processor miniaturization.

The plasonium qubit's strong anharmonicity also means the additional states the qubits can reach are varied and less likely to be found accidentally, reducing the potential for computational errors. ... 

Research at the University of Science and Technology of China in Shanghai has led to the invention of a new type of qubit which is physically smaller, less noisy, and able to retain its state longer than the current qubit design.

From New Scientist