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Controlling and programming quantum devices to process quantum information by the unit of quantum dit, i.e., qudit, provides the possibilities for noise-resilient quantum communications, delicate quantum molecular simulations, and efficient quantum computations, showing great potential to enhance the capabilities of qubit-based quantum technologies. Here, we report a programmable qudit-based quantum processor in silicon-photonic integrated circuits and demonstrate its enhancement of quantum computational parallelism. The processor monolithically integrates all the key functionalities and capabilities of initialisation, manipulation, and measurement of the two quantum quart (ququart) states and multi-value quantum-controlled logic gates with high-level fidelities. By reprogramming the configuration of the processor, we implemented the most basic quantum Fourier transform algorithms, all in quaternary, to benchmark the enhancement of quantum parallelism using qudits, which include generalised Deutsch-Jozsa and Bernstein-Vazirani algorithms, quaternary phase estimation and fast factorization algorithms. The monolithic integration and high programmability have allowed the implementations of more than one million high-fidelity preparations, operations and projections of qudit states in the processor. Our work shows an integrated photonic quantum technology for qudit-based quantum computing with enhanced capacity, accuracy, and efficiency, which could lead to the acceleration of building a large-scale quantum computer. Qudit-based quantum devices can outperform qubit-based ones, but a programmable qudit-based quantum computing device is still missing. Here, the authors fill this gap using a programmable silicon photonic chip employing ququart-based encoding, showing the scaling advantages compared to the qubit counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling and programming quantum devices to process quantum information by the unit of quantum dit, i.e., qudit, provides the possibilities for noise-resilient quantum communications, delicate quantum molecular simulations, and efficient quantum computations, showing great potential to enhance the capabilities of qubit-based quantum technologies. Here, we report a programmable qudit-based quantum processor in silicon-photonic integrated circuits and demonstrate its enhancement of quantum computational parallelism. The processor monolithically integrates all the key functionalities and capabilities of initialisation, manipulation, and measurement of the two quantum quart (ququart) states and multi-value quantum-controlled logic gates with high-level fidelities. By reprogramming the configuration of the processor, we implemented the most basic quantum Fourier transform algorithms, all in quaternary, to benchmark the enhancement of quantum parallelism using qudits, which include generalised Deutsch-Jozsa and Bernstein-Vazirani algorithms, quaternary phase estimation and fast factorization algorithms. The monolithic integration and high programmability have allowed the implementations of more than one million high-fidelity preparations, operations and projections of qudit states in the processor. Our work shows an integrated photonic quantum technology for qudit-based quantum computing with enhanced capacity, accuracy, and efficiency, which could lead to the acceleration of building a large-scale quantum computer. Qudit-based quantum devices can outperform qubit-based ones, but a programmable qudit-based quantum computing device is still missing. Here, the authors fill this gap using a programmable silicon photonic chip employing ququart-based encoding, showing the scaling advantages compared to the qubit counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entanglement and topology portray nature at the fundamental level but differently. Entangled states of particles are intrinsically sensitive to the environment, whereas the topological phases of matter are naturally robust against environmental perturbations. Harnessing topology to protect entanglement has great potential for reliable quantum applications. Generating topologically protected entanglement, however, remains a significant challenge, requiring the operation of complex quantum devices in extreme conditions. Here we report topologically protected entanglement emitters that emit a topological Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen state and a multiphoton entangled state from a monolithically integrated plug-and-play silicon photonic chip in ambient conditions. The device emulating a photonic anomalous Floquet insulator allows the generation of four-photon topological entangled states at non-trivial edge modes, verified by the observation of a reduced de Broglie wavelength. Remarkably, we show that the Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen entanglement can be topologically protected against artificial structure defects by comparing the state fidelities of 0.968 ± 0.004 and 0.951 ± 0.010 for perfect and defected emitters, respectively. Our topologically protected devices may find applications in quantum computation and in the study of quantum topological physics. A photonic anomalous Floquet insulator is emulated in a silicon photonic chip. Up to four-photon topologically protected entangled states are generated in a monolithically integrated emitter in ambient conditions through four-wave mixing on top of the edge modes of the insulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photonics is a promising platform for implementing universal quantum information processing. Its main challenges include precise control of massive circuits of linear optical components and effective implementation of entangling operations on photons. By using large-scale silicon photonic circuits to implement an extension of the linear combination of quantum operators scheme, we realize a fully programmable two-qubit quantum processor, enabling universal two-qubit quantum information processing in optics. The quantum processor is fabricated with mature CMOS-compatible processing and comprises more than 200 photonic components. We programmed the device to implement 98 different two-qubit unitary operations (with an average quantum process fidelity of 93.2 ± 4.5%), a two-qubit quantum approximate optimization algorithm, and efficient simulation of Szegedy directed quantum walks. This fosters further use of the linear-combination architecture with silicon photonics for future photonic quantum processors. A fully programmable two-qubit quantum processor with more than 200 components is demonstrated by using silicon photonic circuits. A two-qubit quantum approximate optimization algorithm and simulation of Szegedy quantum walks are implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advances in control techniques for vibrational quantum states in molecules present new challenges for modelling such systems, which could be amenable to quantum simulation methods. Here, by exploiting a natural mapping between vibrations in molecules and photons in waveguides, we demonstrate a reprogrammable photonic chip as a versatile simulation platform for a range of quantum dynamic behaviour in different molecules. We begin by simulating the time evolution of vibrational excitations in the harmonic approximation for several four-atom molecules, including H2CS, SO3, HNCO, HFHF, N4 and P4. We then simulate coherent and dephased energy transport in the simplest model of the peptide bond in proteins—N-methylacetamide—and simulate thermal relaxation and the effect of anharmonicities in H2O. Finally, we use multi-photon statistics with a feedback control algorithm to iteratively identify quantum states that increase a particular dissociation pathway of NH3. These methods point to powerful new simulation tools for molecular quantum dynamics and the field of femtochemistry. By mapping vibrations in molecules to photons in waveguides, the vibrational quantum dynamics of various molecules are simulated using a photonic chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many existing schemes for linear-optical quantum computing (LOQC) depend on multiplexing (MUX), which uses dynamic routing to enable near-deterministic gates and sources to be constructed using heralded, probabilistic primitives. MUXing accounts for the overwhelming majority of active switching demands in currentLOQCarchitectures. In this manuscript we introduce relative multiplexing (RMUX), a general-purpose optimisation which can dramatically reduce the active switching requirements forMUXin LOQC, and thereby reduce hardware complexity and energy consumption, as well as relaxing demands on performance for various photonic components. We discuss the application ofRMUXto the generation of entangled states from probabilistic singlephoton sources, and argue that an order of magnitude improvement in the rate of generation of Bell states can be achieved. In addition, we applyRMUXto the proposal for percolation of a 3Dcluster state by Gimeno-Segovia et al (2015 Phys. Rev. Lett. 115 020502), and we find thatRMUXallows an 2.4×increase in loss tolerance for this architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Random unitary matrices find a number of applications in quantum information science, and are central to the recently defined boson sampling algorithm for photons in linear optics. We describe an operationally simple method to directly implement Haar random unitary matrices in optical circuits, with no requirement for prior or explicit matrix calculations. Our physically motivated and compact representation directly maps independent probability density functions for parameters in Haar random unitary matrices, to optical circuit components. We go on to extend the results to the case of random unitaries for qubits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encoding quantum information in continuous variables, as the quadrature of electromagnetic fields, is a powerful approach to quantum information science and technology. Continuous-variable entanglement (light beams in Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen, or EPR, states) is a key resource for quantum information protocols and enables hybridization between continuous-variable and single-photon discrete-variable qubit systems. However, continuous-variable systems are currently limited by their implementation in free-space optical networks, and the demand for increased complexity, low loss, high-precision alignment and stability, as well as hybridization, require an alternative approach. Here we present an integrated photonic implementation of the key capabilities for continuous-variable quantum technologies-the generation and characterization of EPR beams in a photonic chip. When combined with integrated squeezing and non-Gaussian operations, these results will open the way to universal quantum information processing with light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum computers promise to solve certain problems that are forever intractable to classical computers. The first of these devices are likely to tackle bespoke problems suited to their own particular physical capabilities. Sampling the probability distribution from many bosons interfering quantum-mechanically is conjectured to be intractable to a classical computer but solvable with photons in linear optics. However, the complexity of this type of problem means its solution is mathematically unverifiable, so the task of establishing successful operation becomes one of gathering sufficiently convincing circumstantial or experimental evidence. Here, we develop scalable methods to experimentally establish correct operation for this class of computation, which we implement for three, four and five photons in integrated optical circuits, on Hilbert spaces of up to 50,000 dimensions. Our broad approach is practical for all quantum computational architectures where formal verification methods for quantum algorithms are either intractable or unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum mechanics continues to predict effects at odds with a classical understanding of nature. Experiments with light at the single-photon level have historically been at the forefront of fundamental tests of quantum theory and the current developments in photonic technologies enable the exploration of new directions. Here we review recent photonic experiments to test two important themes in quantum mechanics: wave-particle duality, which is central to complementarity and delayed-choice experiments; and Bell nonlocality, where the latest theoretical and technological advances have allowed all controversial loopholes to be separately addressed in different experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quantum algorithm solves computational tasks using fewer physical resources than the best-known classical algorithm. Of most interest are those for which an exponential reduction is achieved. The key example is the phase estimation algorithm, which provides the quantum speedup in Shor's factoring algorithm and quantum simulation algorithms. To date, fully quantum experiments of this type have demonstrated only the read-out stage of quantum algorithms, but not the steps in which input data is read in and processed to calculate the final quantum state. Indeed, knowing the answer beforehand was essential. We present a photonic demonstration of a full quantum algorithm-the iterative phase estimation algorithm (IPEA)-without knowing the answer in advance. This result suggests practical applications of the phase estimation algorithm, including quantum simulations and quantum metrology in the near term, and factoring in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum computational algorithms exploit quantum mechanics to solve problems exponentially faster than the best classical algorithms. Shor's quantum algorithm for fast number factoring is a key example and the prime motivator in the international effort to realize a quantum computer. However, due to the substantial resource requirement, to date there have been only four small-scale demonstrations. Here, we address this resource demand and demonstrate a scalable version of Shor's algorithm in which the n-qubit control register is replaced by a single qubit that is recycled n times: the total number of qubits is one-third of that required in the standard protocol. Encoding the work register in higher-dimensional states, we implement a two-photon compiled algorithm to factor N = 21. The algorithmic output is distinguishable from noise, in contrast to previous demonstrations. These results point to larger-scale implementations of Shor's algorithm by harnessing scalable resource reductions applicable to all physical architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical interferometry is amongst the most sensitive techniques for precision measurement. By increasing the light intensity, a more precise measurement can usually be made. However, if the sample is light sensitive entangled states can achieve the same precision with less exposure. This concept has been demonstrated in measurements of known optical components. Here, we use two-photon entangled states to measure the concentration of a blood protein in an aqueous buffer solution. We use an opto-fluidic device that couples a waveguide interferometer with a microfluidic channel. These results point the way to practical applications of quantum metrology to light-sensitive samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum information science addresses how uniquely quantum mechanical phenomena such as superposition and entanglement can enhance communication, information processing, and precision measurement. Photons are appealing for their low-noise, light-speed transmission and ease of manipulation using conventional optical components. However, the lack of highly efficient optical Kerr nonlinearities at the single photon level was a major obstacle. In a breakthrough, Knill, Laflamme, and Milburn (KLM) showed that such an efficient nonlinearity can be achieved using only linear optical elements, auxiliary photons, and measurement [Knill E, Laflamme R; Milburn GJ (2001) Nature 409:46-52]. KLM proposed a heralded controlled-NOT (CNOT) gate for scalable quantum computation using a photonic quantum circuit to combine two such nonlinear elements. Here we experimentally demonstrate a KLM CNOT gate. We developed a stable architecture to realize the required four-photon network of nested multiple interferometers based on a displaced-Sagnac interferometer and several partially polarizing beamsplitters. This result confirms the first step in the original KLM "recipe" for all-optical quantum computation, and should be useful for on-demand entanglement generation and purification. Optical quantum circuits combining giant optical nonlinearities may find wide applications in quantum information processing, communication, and sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first quantum technology that harnesses quantum mechanical effects for its core operation has arrived in the form of commercially available quantum key distribution systems. This technology achieves enhanced security by encoding information in photons such that an eavesdropper in the system can be detected. Anticipated future quantum technologies include large-scale secure networks, enhanced measurement and lithography, and quantum information processors, which promise exponentially greater computational power for particular tasks. Photonics is destined to have a central role in such technologies owing to the high-speed transmission and outstanding low-noise properties of photons. These technologies may use single photons, quantum states of bright laser beams or both, and will undoubtedly apply and drive state-of-the-art developments in photonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On-chip integrated photonic circuits are crucial to further progress towards quantum technologies and in the science of quantum optics. Here we report precise control of single photon states and multiphoton entanglement directly on-chip. We manipulate the state of path-encoded qubits using integrated optical phase control based on resistive elements, observing an interference contrast of 98.2 ± 0.3%. We demonstrate integrated quantum metrology by observing interference fringes with two- and four-photon entangled states generated in a waveguide circuit, with respective interference contrasts of 97.2 ± 0.4% and 92 ± 4%, sufficient to beat the standard quantum limit. Finally, we demonstrate a reconfigurable circuit that continuously and accurately tunes the degree of quantum interference, yielding a maximum visibility of 98.2 ± 0.9%. These results open up adaptive and fully reconfigurable photonic quantum circuits not just for single photons, but for all quantum states of light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum computation promises to solve fundamental, yet otherwise intractable, problems across a range of active fields of research. Recently, universal quantum logic-gate sets—the elemental building blocks for a quantum computer—have been demonstrated in several physical architectures. A serious obstacle to a full-scale implementation is the large number of these gates required to build even small quantum circuits. Here, we present and demonstrate a general technique that harnesses multi-level information carriers to significantly reduce this number, enabling the construction of key quantum circuits with existing technology. We present implementations of two key quantum circuits: the three-qubit Toffoli gate and the general two-qubit controlled-unitary gate. Although our experiment is carried out in a photonic architecture, the technique is independent of the particular physical encoding of quantum information, and has the potential for wider application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large cross-section GaN waveguides are proposed as a suitable architecture to achieve integrated quantum photonic circuits. Directional couplers with this geometry have been designed with aid of the beam propagation method and fabricated using inductively coupled plasma etching. Scanning electron microscopy inspection shows high quality facets for end coupling and a well defined gap between rib pairs in the coupling region. Optical characterization at 800 nm shows single-mode operation and coupling-length-dependent splitting ratios. Two photon interference of degenerate photon pairs has been observed in the directional coupler by measurement of the Hong-Ou-Mandel dip [C. K. Hong, et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 59, 2044 (1987)] with 96% visibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a research done on a technique of enhancing the single-photon emission of atomic defects in single-crystal diamond. by coupling the photons to microring resonators.The research is conducted by researchers Andrei Faraon and colleagues at Hewlett-Packard Laboratories in Palo Alto, California, and a report on it is published in "Nature Photonics." A limitation of this technique of not mapping the initial defect center initially is also discussed.

We demonstrate photonic quantum circuits that operate at the stringent levels that will be required for future quantum information science and technology. These circuits are fabricated from silica-on-silicon waveguides forming directional couplers and interferometers. While our focus is on the operation of quantum circuits, to test this operation required construction of a photon source that produced near-identical pairs of photons. We show nonclassical interference with two photons and a two-photon entangling logic gate that operate with near-unit fidelity. These results are a significant step toward large-scale operation of photonic quantum circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of establishing a fair bet between spatially separated gambler and casino can only be solved in the classical regime by relying on a trusted third party. By combining Nash-equilibrium theory with quantum game theory, we show that a secure, remote, two-party game can be played using a quantum gambling machine which has no classical counterpart. Specifically, by modifying the Nash-equilibrium point we can construct games with arbitrary amount of bias, including a game that is demonstrably fair to both parties. We also report a proof-of-principle experimental demonstration using linear optics. Quantum information: Quantum gambling based on Nash-equilibrium Gambling or betting on an event with an uncertain outcome, is one of the most widely practiced activities in human society. Despite its widespread usage and applications, fair gambling between two spatially separated parties cannot be made without the assistance of a trusted third party. A group of international scientists led by Prof. Pei Zhang from Xi'an Jiaotong University, China, has experimentally demonstrated a novel gambling protocol, which enables fair gambling between two distant parties without the help of a third party. By incorporating the key concepts and methods of game theory, their protocol will "force" the two parties to move their strategies to a Nash-equilibrium point which guarantees the fairness through the physical laws of Quantum Mechanics. Furthermore, the authors show that the protocol can be easily adapted to a biased version, which would find applications in lottery, casino, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We generate photon pairs in a-Si:H microrings using a CW pump, and find the Kerr coefficient of a-Si:H to be 3.73 ± 0.25 × 10−17m2/W. By measuring the Q factor with coupled power we find that the loss in the a-Si:H micro-rings scales linearly with power, and therefore cannot originate from two photon absorption. Theoretically comparing a-Si:H and c-Si micro-ring pair sources, we show that the high Kerr coefficient of this sample of a-Si:H is best utilized for microrings with Q factors below 103, but that for higher Q factor devices the photon pair rate is greatly suppressed due to the first order loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on a study regarding the properties of quantum entanglement using photonic chips and an integrated waveguide device. It mentions that photon is used to develop quantum technologies due to its low noise, high-speed transmission, and ease of manipulation at single-photon level. Moreover, it says that the property of quantum entanglement was exhibited by two polarization entangled photons such as positive and negative photons.