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Quantum Technology

Strengthening quantum research efforts

Quantum technology applications

Quantum effects are already part of our everyday lives. Modern smartphones, for instance, contain billions of transistors, which rely on the quantum mechanical properties of semiconductors to control currents and voltages. This is the first generation of quantum technology and involves harnessing natural quantum effects. The second generation, on the other hand, focuses on creating and controlling individual quantum states.

Our strong expertise in RF technology and the outstanding performance of our devices support the advancement of quantum research. In July 2021, we also welcomed Zurich Instruments to the Rohde & Schwarz family. Zurich Instruments provides a wide range of quantum technology solutions that are the ideal addition to the Rohde & Schwarz T&M portfolio.

The three key areas of quantum technology are:

  • Quantum computing
  • Quantum communications
  • Quantum sensor technology

Quantum computing is an especially vital area of quantum technology. Unlike conventional systems that process data sequentially using binary code, quantum computers (QC) save time by processing data in parallel. This allows them to handle complex problems that are difficult for conventional computers. QCs could make public key encryption methods obsolete, necessitating research on possible future attack scenarios.

This is where quantum communications come in. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a cryptographic technique that enables two parties to securely exchange a secret encryption key over a public channel. Any attempt to eavesdrop disturbs the quantum state and alerts the communicating parties. Unlike quantum computing, QKD is very close to being realized. Rohde & Schwarz and Zurich Instruments are actively involved in this process, participating in projects such as OpenQKD to integrate quantum-safe solutions into existing systems.

Sensing is another important application of quantum technology. Quantum sensing has great potential for high-precision radar, which can detect small, slow-moving objects such as drones - a task conventional radar technology struggles with. Rohde & Schwarz has supported the UK Quantum Technology Hub Sensors and Timing project in assessing quantum clocks for this exact purpose. We are also involved in the Quarate (Quantum Radar Team) project to explore quantum radar at microwave frequencies.

Supporting quantum computing research

Although quantum computing technology is still in the experimental stage, it is evolving rapidly, and many exciting applications are on the horizon. For example, simulating complex molecules is extremely challenging with current computers, requiring over a century of processing time. A quantum computer, on the other hand, could theoretically accomplish such a task within a matter of hours. Quantum computing is also expected to benefit numerous other applications, such as climate analysis, transportation planning, bioinformatics, financial services, encryption and codebreaking

Together, we are proud to be the trusted partner of many quantum research projects and organizations: OpenSuperQPlus, MUNIQC-SC, IQM, Q-NEXT, Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE) and ETH Zurich, among others. Through these collaborations, we continue to drive advancements in quantum computing research and play an integral role in shaping the future of this transformative technology.

Master your quantum testing challenges

Building and running a quantum computer comes with many complex challenges, and these challenges are magnified as the number of qubits increase.

Key challenges when testing quantum systems include:

  • Characterizing fabrication processes and testing new materials using spectroscopy to increase the coherence time of the qubits
  • Verifying functionality and characterizing quantum computing control and readout system
  • Ramping up the quantum processor
  • Keeping the coherence of the system stable at low error rates
  • Potential loss of quantum information introduced by unstable noisy qubit control pulses
  • Automated run of quantum algorithms with a highly integrated, scalable control system

Explore quantum engineering solutions

Together with Zurich Instruments, Rohde & Schwarz now offers support for the entire QC development cycle - from design all the way to operation.

Browse our portfolio and discover:

  • Quantum Computing Control System (QCCS)
  • Quantum analyzers with a real-time readout setup for up to 64 qubits
  • Complete quantum computing solutions that combine signal analyzers, arbitrary waveform generators (AWG) and signal generators with user-friendly control software
  • Wide range of signal generators, from high-performance analog generators to compact and scalable vector signal generators
  • Signal and spectrum analyzers with excellent RF performance
  • Versatile, high-performance network analyzers
  • Oscilloscopes with exceptional signal fidelity, high acquisition rate and an innovative trigger system
  • Power supplies manufactured to the highest standards
Building a quantum computer with Rohde & Schwarz and Zurich Instruments solutions
How to build a Quantum Computer
Open Lightbox

Product portfolio for quantum engineering solutions

Oscilloscopes

Discover innovative oscilloscopes for our Quantum Engineering Solutions. These oscilloscopes offer excellent signal fidelity, high acquisition rates, advanced trigger systems, and a user-friendly interface. Explore the first digital trigger oscilloscopes on the market.

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Signal- and spectrum analyzers

Rohde & Schwarz analyzers, designed by RF experts, lead the market with exceptional signal integrity. Choose from 85 GHz analyzers to compact handheld models.

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Vector signal generators

Discover high-end RF vector signal generators for demanding tasks. Our portfolio caters to R&D, production, and service needs with tailored solutions.

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Quantum Computing Control System (QCCS)

Explore Zurich Instruments' Quantum Computing Control System (QCCS) - the first to control 100+ superconducting and spin qubits. Advance quantum processor development with cutting-edge classical control electronics.

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LabOneQ Software

LabOneQ accelerates quantum computing progress with a Python-based high-level interface for precise multi-channel signal control in quantum labs.

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SHF+ Product Line

The SHF+ product line sets a new standard for high-fidelity qubit control and readout. With a new analog front end, the SHF+ instruments come with even higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and even lower phase noise than before, making top analog performance available for your lab.

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Benefits of our quantum testing solutions

We work with our research partners to develop the best quantum technology solutions.

Choose our solutions and enjoy:

  • Accurate, reproducible result
  • Scalability
  • Exceptional ease-of-use
  • Interoperability for seamless integration into existing setups
  • Ongoing support and technical resources

If you have any questions, please contact us.

Featured quantum research contents

Case study: Riverlane

What is Quantum computing and how will these technical advances benefit the world? Hear from Riverlane on their industry leading innovations.

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Case study: Riverlane

How does Rohde & Schwarz support Riverlane to overcome their quantum computing innovation challenges?

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Webinar: Test & Measurement in Quantum Computing

This webinar is intended for scientists and engineers who work on quantum computing components and systems.

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White Paper: Accelerating quantum computing research

This white paper provides a brief overview of quantum computing, sketches out the current state of research and outlines T&M instruments from Rohde & Schwarz that offer significant advantages to those performing research in the field of quantum computing.

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Case study: Quantum - enabled radar research

When the UK Quantum Technology Hub needed high-precision quantum clocks, they turned to Rohde&Schwarz for test and measurement expertise

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Case study: IQM from Espoo, Finland

IQM from Espoo, Finland, is a European leader of superconductive, application-specific quantum computers.

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R&S story: Next stop: next generation

How test & measurement and network encryption enable new quantum technology applications

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R&S people story: Of Star Trek and quantum technology

Which technologies are trending and are they interesting for R&S? This is analyzed by our employee Christian Dille. He is currently focusing on quantum technology.

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