Breakthrough CMOS Quantum Chip Paves the Way for Scalable Quantum Hardware

Researchers Develop “Quantum Light Factory” on Standard Silicon Platform

In a groundbreaking advancement for quantum computing technology, a team of researchers from Boston University, UC Berkeley, and Northwestern University has developed a compact, scalable quantum photonic chip using conventional CMOS fabrication methods. Dubbed a “Quantum Light Factory,” the innovation marks a significant step toward mass-producing quantum hardware outside specialized laboratory environments.

1 mm² CMOS Quantum Chip Built on 45 nm Process

At the heart of this innovation is a 1 mm² silicon chip fabricated using a standard 45 nm CMOS process. Unlike previous quantum devices requiring exotic materials or custom fabrication, this chip integrates photonic quantum components directly with electronic control circuitry—opening the door to cost-effective and scalable quantum devices.

Integrated Microring Resonators Generate Quantum Photon Pairs

The chip includes 12 microring resonators specifically designed to generate entangled photon pairs, a foundational requirement in quantum communication and computing. These on-chip quantum light sources represent a major leap in integrating quantum photonics with mainstream electronics.

On-Chip Stabilization Ensures Thermal and Optical Precision

One of the long-standing challenges in photonic quantum systems is their sensitivity to temperature fluctuations and optical misalignment. The new design addresses these issues with on-chip heaters and photodiodes, enabling real-time feedback and stabilization. This ensures precise tuning and consistent performance—a crucial feature for moving quantum systems out of the lab and into practical deployment.

Toward Mass Production of Quantum Computing Hardware

This CMOS-based quantum chip is seen as a pivotal step in the evolution of scalable quantum hardware. By leveraging standard semiconductor manufacturing infrastructure, researchers hope to accelerate the transition of quantum photonics from experimental setups to commercial-grade, deployable quantum systems.

Key Highlights

• A 1 mm² quantum chip was developed using standard 45 nm CMOS technology.
• Integrates photonic quantum components with on-chip electronic control.
• Features 12 microring resonators that produce entangled photon pairs.
• Incorporates on-chip heaters and photodiodes for thermal stabilization and precision tuning.
• A major step toward scalable, mass-produced quantum hardware.