Feasibility study of an optical quantum computing laboratory under the EETAC framework

Abstract

Quantum Technology is one of the most promising as well as challenging fields of the twentieth century that takes advantage of Quantum Mechanics properties, specially quantum entanglement and quantum superposition, for running useful applications as quantum computing and quantum cryptography among others. Our Campus, EETAC, has ICFO (Institut de Ciències Fotòniques) on its premises where a broad portfolio of studies is offered. These studies focus on the knowledgement of optical technologies with the objective of giving the students the opportunity to develop their skills. On the other hand, there is a subject called TIQ (Tecnologies d'Informació Quàntica) in the fourth year of Telecommunication Systems Degree where the basic quantum concepts are taught and also their applications. Taking into account the outstanding advantages of this technology this work aims to give an overview on the basics of quantum computing and quantum optics through theoric explanations, definitions and basic mathematical formulas with the objective of carrying out quantum experiments on the undergraduate level that help on the approach of the new generation of students to these new technologies and awake their interest on this field. Pricelists with the necessary elements for performing the experiments are also provided as well as a list of different providers in order to give an estimation on the cost that setting up this quantum optical laboratory would imply.