Quantum Bit Microwave Frequency Adjustment Against Clock Harmonics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Harmonic noise generated by digital signals is superimposed on microwaves in quantum computers, leading to potential malfunctions and reduced signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in quantum bit devices.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus with an adjustment circuit that adjusts the frequency of microwaves to avoid harmonics, using a phase-locked loop (PLL) and local oscillators to ensure the microwaves' frequencies do not match integral multiples of the digital circuit's clock frequency, thereby reducing harmonic noise.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If digital signals are generated in the quantum computer, then control operations can be performed, but harmonic noise is generated and superimposed on the microwaves

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol operation capabilityVSAvoidharmonic noise
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the frequency of the microwave signal to avoid integer multiples of the digital circuit clock frequency. The frequency adjustment circuit modifies the microwave frequency parameter so that it does not coincide with harmonic frequencies generated by the digital signals, thereby eliminating noise superposition while maintaining control functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-generated harmful factors

If the frequency of microwaves is adjusted to avoid harmonics, then harmonic noise is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveharmonic noiseVSAvoidfrequency adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a frequency adjustment circuit as an intermediary component between the signal generation unit and the quantum bit control line. This intermediary device specifically targets and eliminates harmonic noise by adjusting the microwave frequency, while the control signal generation unit continues to operate independently without requiring fundamental design changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If frequency adjustment is performed to reduce harmonic noise, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal-to-noise ratioVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements partial action by performing frequency adjustment only when harmonic noise is detected or when operating in specific modes, rather than continuously adjusting the frequency. The frequency adjustment circuit operates selectively to reduce noise while minimizing unnecessary power consumption during normal operation without noise interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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

Reduces harmonic noise superimposed on microwaves, maintaining a high SNR and preventing malfunctions in quantum bit devices, while minimizing power consumption and preserving the dynamic range of digital-to-analog converters.

Implementation Method 1

using a phase-locked loop (PLL) and local oscillators to ensure the microwaves' frequencies do not match integral multiples of the digital circuit's clock frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase-locked loop (PLL):

Implementation Method 2

using a phase-locked loop (PLL) and local oscillators to ensure the microwaves' frequencies do not match integral multiples of the digital circuit's clock frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLocal oscillator frequency generation:

Data Source

PatentEP4482285B1Information processing device, frequency adjustment method, and frequency adjustment program
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 FUJITSU LTD
  • EP4482285B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4482285B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4482285B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes: a quantum bit; a digital circuit configured to generate a digital signal; a conversion circuit configured to convert the digital signal into a microwave to be transmitted to the quantum bit; and an adjustment circuit configured to set a first frequency of a clock used in the digital circuit such that a harmonic frequency of the first frequency differs from a second frequency of the microwave.