
This article is taken from Where does EU stand in the quantum computing race with China and US?
Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have built the smallest quantum computer yet, prompting questions if European outfits can take on the leading pack.
Where does EU stand in the quantum computing race with China and US?
A notable feature of the compact quantum computer is its low power consumption, which stands at 1.5 kilowatts – the same amount of energy needed to power a kettle. “Indeed, such is its low power consumption, that the researchers in the University of Innsbruck are exploring how to power the device using solar panels.”
Another decisive factor for the industrial use of quantum computers is the number of available qubits. The Innsbruck physicists were able to run the quantum computer with 24 fully functional qubits – individually controlling and entangling 24 trapped ions with their device – meeting a recent target set by the German government with surprising speed.