Why would you put a computer in the freezer? Frozen chips aren’t just what’s for dinner. Quantum computers need to be kept in supercool conditions to function, which can be a problem for the supporting electronics. Digital Economy Quantum computers demand precise cryogenic conditions, as qubits are sensitive to heat and interference. Conversely, the supporting electronics produce heat, and struggle to operate in ultra-cold conditions. The EU-funded SEQUENCE project developed cryogenic transistors and models to reduce power consumption and therefore generated heat, and enhanced circuitry including low-noise amplifiers and digital-to-analogue converters. The project has now been featured in the CORDIS series of explanatory videos titled Make the Connection. SEQUENCE's innovations mark a significant step towards efficient, scalable cryogenic electronics with wide-ranging applications. “The technology will not only benefit the development of quantum technologies,” says project coordinator Lars-Erik Wernersson – thanks to its refined transistor models and ability to operate at extremely low temperatures, SEQUENCE's technology finds applications in semiconductor manufacturing and space technology. ‘Make the connection with EU science’ is a series of explanatory videos focusing on the scientific content and exploitation aspects of EU research projects. Keywords SEQUENCE, cryogenic electronics, transistor, semiconductor, quantum computing, communication systems
