Oxford Ionics has provided a full stack quantum computer to the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) as it tests and develops commercial use cases.
The Oxford-based computing firm has in partnership with NQCC and Innovate UK launched a testbed programme to explore how quantum computers can provide commercial returns.
The new quantum computer, called QUARTET, has been installed in NQCC’s data centre in Harwell.
“The successful installation of the QUARTET trapped-ion quantum computer by Oxford Ionics marks a pivotal step forwards the NQCC’s quantum computing testbeds initiative,” said Dr. Michael Cuthbert, director of the NQCC.
“The proprietary architecture of the system is designed to tackle the scalability challenges of quantum computing. We are really excited to start the testing and validating of the system for the development of algorithms and new applications.”
QUARTET uses Oxford Ionics’ proprietary electronic qubit control technology, using electronics instead of lasers to control its qubits.
“Installing Quartet at the NQCC marks a major milestone – not just for our company, but for unlocking a future powered by quantum computing,” said Oxford Ionics chief executive Dr. Chris Ballance.
“Quartet represents a significant step forward in making commercially-valuable quantum computing a reality, ensuring we are equipped with the compute power to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.”
Earlier this year, Oxford Ionics agreed a deal to be acquired by US firm IonQ in a deal worth over $1bn.
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