In a groundbreaking development for quantum computing, the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center has unveiled the Origin SL1000 dilution refrigerator in Hefei City, Anhui Province. Independently developed by Origin Quantum Computing Technology (Hefei) Co., Ltd., this state-of-the-art device positions China at the forefront of dilution refrigeration technology, marking a significant leap in the global quantum computing landscape.
Often referred to as the “quantum computing air conditioner,” the dilution refrigerator is essential for constructing superconducting quantum computers. It creates an environment of extremely low temperatures, nearing absolute zero, necessary for the operation of superconducting quantum chips. The Origin SL1000 represents a substantial advancement over its predecessors, particularly in spatial capacity and cooling efficiency.
“The Origin SL400 accommodates 336 extremely low-temperature, special high-frequency coaxial cables, whereas the Origin SL1000 can house 840 cables, meeting the demanding criteria for establishing operational environments for 100-plus bit superconducting quantum chips,” explained Zhang Junfeng, a representative from the Anhui Provincial Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center.
The performance of dilution refrigerators is gauged by their cooling capacity, a critical metric for sustaining the ultra-low temperatures required for quantum computing operations. “The Origin SL400 delivers 400 microwatts of cooling capacity at an ultra-low temperature of minus 273.05 degrees Celsius. In contrast, the Origin SL1000 escalates this capacity to 1,000 microwatts under identical conditions,” Zhang said. He likened the upgrade from the Origin SL400 to the Origin SL1000 to an air conditioner’s transition from 1.5 to 3 horsepower, underscoring the substantial leap in performance.
This advancement not only enhances China’s capabilities in quantum computing but also contributes significantly to global efforts in developing practical quantum computers. The increased capacity and efficiency of the Origin SL1000 dilution refrigerator support the operation of more complex quantum chips, bringing the world closer to realizing the full potential of quantum computing.
Reference(s):
China makes breakthrough in quantum computing dilution refrigerator
cgtn.com
