Types of quantum computers
As you learned in the previous section, there are two QC paradigms. The first is gate-based using quantum computers, with fewer, higher-quality qubits for general-purpose devices. Most quantum computers are gate-based, such as Rigetti and IonQ.
The second QC paradigm involves quantum annealers with many qubits built for special purposes. D-Wave-built quantum computers are based on quantum annealing. D-Wave provides quantum computers of up to 2,000 qubits. Let's look at some quantum computers based on the different types of particles used:
- Trapped Ions: The first quantum logic gate was demonstrated in 1995 using trapped atomic ions. It uses two internal states of ions, whose positions are controlled with electric fields in "ion traps" as their fundamental quantum element. The state of each ion can be changed using controlled microwave radiation. These pulses can be arranged to couple the states of two or more ions to create entanglement...