Archive for the ‘Quantum Computer’ Category

Time Crystals Could be the Circuit Boards of Future Quantum Computers – The Debrief

Scientists from Swinburne University of Technology in Australia and Jagiellonian University in Poland have proposed using time crystals as a core component of a quantum computer. In the preprint paper, the scientists propose using time crystals as a type of circuit to keep the quantum components within the computer from interfering with each other and causing errors. While more research is required in order to check the feasibility of the idea, it could have significant implications for the future of quantum technology.

The concept of a time crystal was first proposed around the mid-2010s. The idea is that, like a crystal has a repeated structure in space (with multiple faces and sides), a time crystal has a repeated structure in time. While difficult to understand, the time crystal can be likened to a perpetual motion machine, where atomic or particle arrangements repeatedly transform over repeated time segments in a never-ending train of particles.

While the time crystal began as a theoretical concept, it has now been constructed using high-powered lasers and ultracold atoms. The laser can produce discrete patterns of light in specific time intervals, causing the particles to be excited or change quantum states repeatedly.

Because of their discrete timing patterns, physicists believe that time crystals may be able to help isolate individual quantum bits or qubits that make up the processing units of a quantum computer.

Quantum computers utilize quantum mechanical phenomena, such as superposition and entanglement, to solve complex problems that a traditional or classical computer is unable to solve. Their power comes from their ability to transform and change the qubits inside them, which can be individual atoms, photon light particles, ions, or other particles. Companies like Google, IBM, and Quantinuum, along with many smaller start-ups, each use different atoms as qubits within their systems, showing the many types of quantum computers.

One of the challenges in creating a working quantum computer is the fragility of the qubits. Qubits can become susceptible to environmental or outside noise, causing them to change quantum states or become unentangled from other qubits in a process known as decoherence. The qubits within a quantum computer can also interfere with each other, which makes scaling up quantum computers from only a few qubits to a few hundred qubits a big challenge. Not only will more qubits interfere with each other, but they can add to the environmental noise that may affect the entire system.

While scientists and engineers are working to overcome these challenges, time crystals could be a potential avenue to explore as a solution to these issues.

In this new preprint paper, the scientists propose integrating time crystals into a quantum computer as a time-tronic circuit board. In this circuit board, the time crystals could regulate the timing of analysis and information moving through the qubits, isolating them from each other and mitigating some of the potential errors that could happen.

The elements of these devices can correspond to structures of dimensions higher than three and can be arbitrarily connected and reconfigured at any moment, the researchers write about the time-tronic circuit in their paper. They add that these circuit boards could be used for other quantum devices, with quantum computing being the most prominent application.

While experiments are needed to validate the researchers theory, the team simulated using a time crystal to control a group of ultracold potassium ions being directed by a laser pulse, showing that the time crystal could create a steady rhythm for the ions to move to.

Combining quantum computing and time crystals is not a new idea. Australian physicists simulated a time crystal using a quantum computer in 2022, creating one with 57 particles, the biggest time crystal thus far. Before this, Googles quantum computing team created a 20-qubit time crystal using Googles Sycamore quantum computer.

While quantum computers have previously been used to create time crystals, the future of quantum computing innovation may depend on time crystals being integrated into bigger quantum computers and other devices.

Kenna Hughes-Castleberry is the Science Communicator at JILA (a world-leading physics research institute) and a science writer at The Debrief. Follow and connect with her on X or contact her via email at kenna@thedebrief.org

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Time Crystals Could be the Circuit Boards of Future Quantum Computers - The Debrief

3 Quantum Computing Stocks That Could Make Your Grandchildren Rich – InvestorPlace

For tech-centric investors, quantum computing stocks many offer the biggest bang for your buck. To make a long story short, the underlying innovation facilitates multiple processes to run simultaneously. Therefore, it can dramatically outperform some of the fastest and most rigorous classical computer available. It all centers on the qubit.

Similar to the bit in classical computers, a qubit represents the basic unit of information in quantum computers. What makes qubits distinct, though, is the concept of superposition. Essentially, this block of information can be represented as a 0 or 1 or any proportion of these two binary values in both states simultaneously.

A very rudimentary explanation is that classical computers represent the equivalent of a single-lane roadway. On the other hand, quantum computers represent multi-lane expressways. Multiple cars can zip along the expressway at high speeds, enabling for far greater utility than a single-lane roadway.

Again, thats a very basic analogy and oversimplifies the complex granularity involved. But this roughly addresses why the sector is so enticing. And with that, below are some of the top quantum computing stocks to consider.

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To be blunt, legacy tech giant IBM (NYSE:IBM) probably isnt going to make you rich, at least not in the 1,000% return over the course of a few years sense. Nevertheless, Id consider Big Blue to be one of the top quantum computing stocks for generational wealth. Thats because if history is any guide, IBM isnt going anywhere. Incorporated in 1911, its older than all of us and will likely outlive us.

Another aspect that makes IBM compelling is the underlying financial consistency. Youre probably not going to see too many remarkable results. However, in the past four quarters, the tech giant posted an average earnings per share of roughly $2.44. This print translated to an earnings surprise of almost 4.9%.

During the trailing 12 months (TTM), IBM posted net income of $8.15 billion or earnings of $8.82 per share. Revenue hit $62.07 billion. For the year, covering experts believe EPS may rise 3.3% to $9.94. On the top line, sales could see a 2% increase to $63.05 billion.

These arent standout stats. However, keep in mind that IBM offers a forward yield of 3.86%.

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Based in Berkeley, California, Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ:RGTI) falls under the computer hardware space. Per its public profile, Rigetti builds quantum computers along with superconducting quantum processors. Its an intriguing idea among quantum computing stocks, especially because it could be relatively undervalued. RGTI trades at 11.55X trailing-year sales. In the first quarter, it traded at 16.82X.

As exciting as Rigetti is, however, its undoubtedly a risky entity. During the past four quarters, its average loss per share came out to 13.3 cents. Further, the average earnings surprise landed at almost 4% below breakeven. Thats not exactly the most encouraging profile.

In the TTM period, Rigetti incurred a net loss of $72.53 million or 52 cents per share. However, revenue in the period reached $12.86 million. Whats more, the most recent quarterly sales growth rate (year-over-year) hit 38.7%.

For fiscal 2024, analysts see a mitigation in loss per share to 41 cents. More importantly, sales could rise 27.4% to land at $15.3 million. For those willing to throw caution to the wind, RGTI ranks among the quantum computing stocks to consider.

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Another hardware specialist, IonQ (NYSE:IONQ) engages in the development of general-purpose quantum computing systems. In particular, the company utilizes its trapped-ion technology for its advanced systems. This innovation provides a key advantage related to qubit coherence and scalability. Basically, IonQ is attempting to build the foundation for large-scale quantum systems.

What makes IONQ stock especially enticing is that the underlying quantum computers are accessible through major cloud platforms. That should help overall visibility. However, investors shouldnt be under any misguidance: IONQ is a high-risk, high-reward endeavor. During the past four quarters, the company incurred a loss per share of almost 21 cents. The average quarterly surprise landed at 16.85% below parity.

In the TTM period, IonQ incurred a net loss of $170 million. However, revenue in the period hit $25.34 million. Further, the most recent quarterly sales growth rate clocked in at almost 77%. For fiscal 2024, the loss per share could expand unfavorably to 87 cents. However, revenue may fly 79.1% to $39.47 million. Bet on it only if you can handle the volatility risk.

On the date of publication, Josh Enomoto did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

A former senior business analyst for Sony Electronics, Josh Enomoto has helped broker major contracts with Fortune Global 500 companies. Over the past several years, he has delivered unique, critical insights for the investment markets, as well as various other industries including legal, construction management, and healthcare. Tweet him at @EnomotoMedia.

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3 Quantum Computing Stocks That Could Make Your Grandchildren Rich - InvestorPlace

Scientists invent tiny device that creates ice-cold electricity for quantum computers – Study Finds

The LANES lab's 2D device made of graphene and indium selenide ( Alain Herzog)

LAUSANNE, Switzerland Scientists have created a miniature 2D device that can convert heat into electricity with record-breaking efficiency at temperatures lower than in outer space! This breakthrough could revolutionize how we power sensitive quantum computers and explore exotic physics in extremely cold environments.

In the journalNature Nanotechnology, a team of researchers from Switzerland and Japan revealed their electrically-tunable Nernst effect device made from atomically-thin layers of different materials stacked together. Their tiny chip, measuring just micrometers across, can generate useful electrical signals from small temperature differences even at a frigid 100 millikelvin just a fraction of a degree above absolute zero.

The device takes advantage of the Nernst effect, where a voltage is generated perpendicular to both a temperature gradient and magnetic field in certain materials. While this effect has been known for over a century, making it work well in extreme cold has been an ongoing challenge until now.

We are the first to create a device that matches the conversion efficiency of current technologies, but that operates at the low magnetic fields and ultra-low temperatures required for quantum systems. This work is truly a step ahead, says Gabriele Pasquale, a PhD student at EPFLs Laboratory of Nanoscale Electronics and Structures (LANES), in a media release.

The key to the teams success was carefully combining different two-dimensional materials into a van der Waals heterostructure essentially a stack of ultra-thin layers held together by weak atomic forces.

They started with a base layer of graphene a single-atom-thick sheet of carbon with excellent electrical properties. On top of this, they placed a few layers of indium selenide (InSe), a semiconductor with intriguing thermoelectric characteristics. The whole stack was then encapsulated in insulating layers of hexagonal boron nitride for protection.

The researchers fabricated their devices using advanced clean-room techniques to ensure the highest quality and purity of materials. They then cooled the chips down to just above absolute zero in a special refrigerator called a dilution fridge.

To test the devices, the team used a focused laser to create localized heating and sophisticated electronic measurements to detect the resulting signals. They also applied magnetic fields and varied the electrical charge in the device using additional electrodes.

The team observed a Nernst effect signal that could be switched on and off electrically with an unprecedented ratio of 1,000 to 1. This means the device can be precisely controlled using standard electronic components.

Even more impressively, they measured a Nernst coefficient a measure of the strength of the effect of 66.4 microvolts per kelvin per tesla. This is the highest value ever reported at such low temperatures and modest magnetic fields.

The researchers also found that their heterostructure design amplified the Nernst effect compared to using graphene or indium selenide alone. This synergistic enhancement points to new ways of engineering improved thermoelectric materials.

If you think of a laptop in a cold office, the laptop will still heat up as it operates, causing the temperature of the room to increase as well. In quantum computing systems, there is currently no mechanism to prevent this heat from disturbing the qubits. Our device could provide this necessary cooling, Pasquale explains.

This breakthrough has significant implications for both fundamental physics and practical applications. On the basic science side, it provides a new tool for probing exotic quantum states of matter that only emerge at ultra-low temperatures.

On the applied side, the technology could find use in quantum computing, where precise control of heat flow is critical. It might enable new types of quantum sensors or help manage waste heat in superconducting circuits.

The team is now working to further optimize their devices and explore different material combinations. Theyre also investigating how to scale up production for practical applications.

These findings represent a major advancement in nanotechnology and hold promise for developing advanced cooling technologies essential for quantum computing at millikelvin temperatures, Pasquale concludes. We believe this achievement could revolutionize cooling systems for future technologies.

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Scientists invent tiny device that creates ice-cold electricity for quantum computers - Study Finds

The 3 Best Quantum Computing Stocks to Buy in July 2024 – InvestorPlace

Analysts state that the financial services sector is expected to see significant benefits from quantum computing through enhanced portfolio optimization and fraud detection capabilities. Throughout all of this, the healthcare industry is anticipated to leverage quantum computing for drug discovery and personalized medicine. As the technology evolves, we will see a transition from physical qubits to more stable, error-corrected logical qubits. This will enhance the reliability of quantum computations. So now could be a great time for investors to consider these quantum computing stocks to buy.

Here are three companies to consider.

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IonQ (NYSE:IONQ) is a leading developer of quantum computing systems and software. The company uses trapped ion technology to create quantum computers with high-fidelity qubits and low error rates.

There are a few reasons Im bullish on IONQ. The average analyst rating for IonQ is a Buy. The consensus price target is $16.50. Furthermore, this representing a potential upside of 141.23% from the current stock price.

Also, analysts expect IonQs revenue to grow at a rapid pace, with a 5-year revenue growth forecast of 95.40%. If the company can maintain this growth trajectory and improve its profitability, the stocks valuation may become more attractive over time.

IonQ also has a strong balance sheet with a net cash position of $359.72 million, or $1.70 per share. Moreover, this provides the company with financial flexibility to invest in growth opportunities and weather potential challenges. Also, this is hedging against short-term fears of shareholder dilution through the issuance of new shares.

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D-Wave Quantum (NYSE:QBTS) is a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services. People know this company for its quantum annealing technology.

I think that QBTS could be one of the frontrunners in the quantum computing arms race for a few reasons.

QBTS launched the fast-anneal feature. This is now available on all of its quantum processing units (QPUs) in the Leap real-time quantum cloud service. Furthermore, this feature allows users to perform quantum computations at unprecedented speeds. As a result, this will significantly reduce the impact of external disturbances such as thermal fluctuations and noise.

In the press release, QBTS states that the fast-anneal feature has generated significant interest from commercial and academic researchers who are eager to leverage its capabilities for building world-class applications, expanding benchmarking studies, and exploring the potential benefits of increased coherence in various industrial applications.

In terms of financial forecasts, D-Wave Quantums revenue may grow by 46.02% this year to $12.79 million, and by 101.46% next year to $25.76 million. While the company is still expected to report losses in the coming years, the magnitude of those losses is projected to decrease

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Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ:RGTI) is a pioneer in quantum computing, offering full-stack quantum-classical computing services. The company provides its services through Rigetti Quantum Cloud Services, serving global enterprise, government, and research clients.

The average analyst rating for RGTI is strong buy, with a consensus price target of $3.17, representing a potential upside of 217.41% from the current stock price of around $1 at the time of writing.

Also, RGTIs revenue is expected to grow by 29.96% this year to $15.61 million and by 88.86% next year to $29.47 million. The companys 5-year revenue growth forecast is 70.72%, indicating a strong growth trajectory.

This optimism is reflected in RGTIs valuation, RGTI has a high price-to-sales (PS) ratio of 13 times sales and a forward PS ratio of 10, so the market is pricing in some very strong expectations for the company. This companys valuation though is slightly on the smaller side compared with its peers in the industry, which could mean it may be an undervalued opportunity also.

On the date of publication, the responsible editor did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.

On the date of publication, Matthew Farley did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.

Matthew started writing coverage of the financial markets during the crypto boom of 2017 and was also a team member of several fintech startups. He then started writing about Australian and U.S. equities for various publications. His work has appeared in MarketBeat, FXStreet, Cryptoslate, Seeking Alpha, and the New Scientist magazine, among others.

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The 3 Best Quantum Computing Stocks to Buy in July 2024 - InvestorPlace

3 Quantum Computing Stocks to Sell in July Before They Crash & Burn – InvestorPlace

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Quantum computing could very well bring about a digital age greater than generative artificial intelligence (AI). For those unaware, quantum computing leverages quantum mechanics, the physics undergirding small particles, to solve problems that classical computers have a hard time getting through. Moreover, in classical computers, bits, which are the fundamental units of information, can only take the form of 0s and 1s, yet qubits can take either of those forms and can assume both states at the same time. Because classical computers are binary-based machines, they can struggle when performing extremely complex problem-solving, such as modeling the behavior of individual atoms or identifying subtleties in fraudulent financial transactions. Quantum computers are ideal for these problems. However, despite this technologys potential, there are quantum computing stocks to sell, as not all companies succeed long-term.

While start-ups firms leveraging innovative techniques to build scalable quantum computers for enterprises was a hot trade in 2023, the macroeconomic environment and a beleaguered economy has soured investor sentiment on start-up businesses in a novel field. Below are three quantum computing stocks to sell in July.

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IonQ (NYSE:IONQ) has received a ton of attention from investors in the past twelve months. The firm develops and manufactures various quantum computing systems and has done so since 2015 with a firm commitment to innovation. To develop such advanced systems, IonQ leverages a trapped-ion system. The system traps ions from barium or ytterbium in an electromagnetic field that allows their ability to be harnessed for quantum computations. The Aria quantum system is IonQs latest quantum computer and boasts 25 qubits. While the quantum computing firm does manufacture and sell large quantum systems, the power of its existing computers is available on cloud services, including Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) Web Services, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) Azure and Alphabets (NASDAQ:GOOG, NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google Cloud.

IonQ had a runup in its share price due to more innovative advances as well investor hype around artificial intelligence and fields loosely related to it, particularly quantum computing. However, investors desiring concrete results and real use-cases for quantum computers have begun to shun the stock. IONQ has plummeted 43.3% since the start of 2024, and investor fatigue around AI could see shares fall even further in the near and medium terms.

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Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ:RGTI) is another pure-play quantum computing startup. In particular, Rigetti specializes in designing and building quantum processors. As a vertically integrated company, Rigetti both owns and operates a wafer fabrication facility called Fab-1 that produces quantum processors. While the company came into inception in 2013, it begun to sell quantum processing power via cloud environments as early as 2017. Moreover, Rigetti had begun selling physical quantum computers towards the end of 2023. The companys most impressive advancement has been the building of the Ankaa-2 system which boasts 84 qubits and has processing power that is available through various cloud services.

However, similar to IonQ, Rigettis stock rallied amidst all the noise about novel technologies like generative AI. In the middle of March, Rigettis share price had risen more than 112% for the year, but shares have fallen precipitously since then. Trading at just above $1/share, Rigetti is increasingly looking like a bad investment, despite all of its innovations. Investors are beginning to focus on earnings quality, and because Rigetti is still a cash-burning startup, it will probably face a tough time getting more love from the market.

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Quantum Computing (QCi) (NASDAQ:QUBT) is, as the name suggests, a quantum computing firm and specializes in creating affordable quantum systems. The startups focus on photonics has allowed it to create the QCi core technology, which leverages light as well as lights quantum mechanical properties as a tool for various quantum applications. Outside of developing hardware, QCi has built a key software platform, Qatalyst, which the company says has focused on agnostic enterprise software for quantum computing systems.

Unfortunately, the quantum computing firms stock has absolutely tanked. Now trading around $0.50/share, QUBT has plummeted 60.7% over the past 12 months and more than 90% if we zoom out over the past 3 years. Again, were dealing with a startup that is barely generating any sales or earnings, which has definitely hurt its long-term prospects in the eyes of investors.

Because quantum computing applications only serve the needs of research institutes and a select few enterprises, its hard to say when Quantum Computings growth will pick up.

On the date of publication, Tyrik Torresdid not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

On the date of publication, the responsible editor did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.

Tyrik Torres has been studying and participating in financial markets since he was in college, and he has particular passion for helping people understand complex systems. His areas of expertise are semiconductor and enterprise software equities. He has work experience in both investing (public and private markets) and investment banking.

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3 Quantum Computing Stocks to Sell in July Before They Crash & Burn - InvestorPlace