MEMS Switch Helps Clear Quantum-Computer Bottlenecks

Menlo Microsystems Inc., in collaboration with Purdue University, achieved control and readout electronics at cryogenic temperatures suitable for integration into quantum computers. The organizations’ teamwork explores the use of Menlo Micro’s cryogenic-capable microelectromechanical-systems (MEMS) Ideal Switch in scalable quantum-computing applications (see image above).

Their study involved overcoming typical bottlenecks formed when interconnecting room-temperature electronic systems and circuits to cryogenic quantum microprocessors. Use of the cryogenically capable switch-based MEMS multiplexers helped reduce system wiring complexity, thermal load, and cost.

Professor Luna Lu, vice-president of Purdue’s Office of Industry Partnerships, noted, “We are excited to partner with Menlo Micro on research that bridges device-level innovation and system-level impact.”

Regarding the study, he added, “This study demonstrates how commercially available MEMS switch technology can be leveraged to solve key scalability challenges in quantum computing, accelerating the adoption of deployable, large-scale systems.”

The study revealed that the switches/multiplexers can support digital logic functions at cryogenic temperatures. The cryogenic switch/multiplexer was characterized at about 5.8K, providing 35-dB isolation with better than 0.5-dB insertion loss. Using gate-drive techniques meant to eliminate switch “bouncing,” the Purdue researchers demonstrated the high reliability of the cryogenic switch platform.

Russ Garcia, CEO of Menlo Micro, said, “This work demonstrates how Menlo Micro’s commercial cryogenic switches can be deployed as a scalable solution for next-generation quantum systems.”

He noted how the switches offer a practical solution for quantum-computer systems: “By addressing the interconnect bottleneck with a manufacturable, high-performance platform, we are enabling practical quantum architectures while expanding our addressable market across cryogenic and advanced computing applications."

Connor Devitt, a researcher at Purdue University, added, “Our work demonstrates that Menlo Micro’s highly reliable MEMS switch can be readily adapted for cryogenic operation through gate waveform engineering, enabling compact, scalable, and high-performance RF multiplexing critical for large-scale quantum systems.”