Josephson Parametric Converter Impedance Matching for Multi-Qubit Readout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current quantum computing technologies face limitations in efficiently reading out qubit states due to bandwidth and amplification power constraints, which reduce coherence time and introduce errors, making it challenging to execute multiple quantum jobs quickly and accurately.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a Josephson parametric converter (JPC) device with a Josephson ring modulator and impedance matching circuit networks, enabling increased bandwidth and saturation power, allowing for simultaneous readout of multiple qubit resonators and frequency conversion across a wide range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If conventional readout methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but bandwidth and amplification power are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamplification powerVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the electrical characteristics of the readout circuit through impedance matching networks. The networks transform the impedance of the Josephson parametric converter to match the source and load impedances, thereby optimizing power transfer and increasing amplification power without fundamentally changing the device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The impedance matching networks serve as intermediary components between the Josephson parametric converter and the measurement system. These networks mediate the impedance mismatch, enabling efficient power transfer and signal amplification while isolating the core quantum device from external impedance variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Duration of action of moving object

If conventional readout methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but coherence time is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoherence timeVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The impedance matching networks act as intermediary elements that buffer the quantum device from external disturbances. By providing impedance transformation and isolation, these networks reduce signal reflection and noise coupling, thereby extending the effective coherence time of the qubits during readout operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameter profile along the signal path by introducing distributed impedance transformation. This gradual parameter change minimizes abrupt impedance discontinuities, reducing signal reflections and energy loss that would otherwise shorten coherence time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If conventional readout methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The impedance matching networks optimize the electrical parameter profile for maximum signal transfer efficiency. By transforming impedances to match optimal values, the networks enhance the signal-to-noise ratio at the output, directly improving measurement precision without requiring more complex quantum circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The matching networks serve as intermediary components that condition the signal before it reaches the measurement system. They filter out impedance-mismatch-related distortions and reflections, providing a cleaner signal that improves the precision of quantum state measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Productivity

If bandwidth is increased through impedance matching, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexecution speedVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs parameter changes in the form of distributed impedance transformation along the signal path. This approach broadens the frequency bandwidth over which the Josephson parametric converter operates effectively, enabling faster execution of quantum jobs by allowing wider frequency multiplexing of multiple qubits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The impedance matching networks introduce an additional dimensional degree of freedom for bandwidth control through distributed element design. By varying the spatial distribution of inductive and capacitive elements along the transmission path, the system achieves broadband operation without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enhances the coherence time of qubits, reduces errors, and enables faster, more accurate execution of quantum jobs by increasing bandwidth and saturation power, facilitating efficient readout and frequency conversion of multiple qubits.

Implementation Method 1

Josephson parametric converters (JPCs) are nondegenerate three-wave mixing devices that operate near the quantum noise limit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11888471B2Josephson parametric converter having impedance-matching networks
Publication Date: 2024.01.30 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US11888471B2 patent drawing
  • US11888471B2 patent drawing
  • US11888471B2 patent drawing

AI summary

One or more systems, devices and/or methods of use provided herein relate to a device that can provide bandwidth and/or saturation power to amplify a plurality of readout frequencies or to convert one or more frequencies. In quantum technology, the one or more systems, devices and/or methods of use provided herein can be employed to simultaneously readout a plurality of qubit resonators. A device can comprise a Josephson parametric converter device comprising a Josephson ring modulator having a pair of nodes, and an impedance matching circuit network operatively connected across the pair of nodes. The device can be separately operable in an amplification mode or in a conversion mode.