by Neil Gershenfeld and Isaac L. Chuang
Factoring a number with 400 digits--a numerical feat needed to break some security
codes--would take even the fastest supercomputer in existence billions of years. But a
newly conceived type of computer, one that exploits quantum-mechanical interactions,
might complete the task in a year or so, thereby defeating many of the most
sophisticated encryption schemes in use. Sensitive data are safe for the time being,
because no one has been able to build a practical quantum computer. But researchers
have now demonstrated the feasibility of this approach. Such a computer would look
nothing like the machine that sits on your desk; surprisingly, it might resemble the cup of
coffee at its side.
Several research groups believe quantum computers based on the molecules in a liquid
might one day overcome many of the limits facing conventional computers. Roadblocks
to improving conventional computers will ultimately arise from the fundamental physical
bounds to miniaturization (for example, because transistors and electrical wiring cannot
be made slimmer than the width of an atom). Or they may come about for practical
reasons--most likely because the facilities for fabricating still more powerful microchips
will become prohibitively expensive. Yet the magic of quantum mechanics might solve
both these problems.
Factoring a number with 400 digits--a numerical feat needed to break some security
codes--would take even the fastest supercomputer in existence billions of years. But a
newly conceived type of computer, one that exploits quantum-mechanical interactions,
might complete the task in a year or so, thereby defeating many of the most
sophisticated encryption schemes in use. Sensitive data are safe for the time being,
because no one has been able to build a practical quantum computer. But researchers
have now demonstrated the feasibility of this approach. Such a computer would look
nothing like the machine that sits on your desk; surprisingly, it might resemble the cup of
coffee at its side.
Several research groups believe quantum computers based on the molecules in a liquid
might one day overcome many of the limits facing conventional computers. Roadblocks
to improving conventional computers will ultimately arise from the fundamental physical
bounds to miniaturization (for example, because transistors and electrical wiring cannot
be made slimmer than the width of an atom). Or they may come about for practical
reasons--most likely because the facilities for fabricating still more powerful microchips
will become prohibitively expensive. Yet the magic of quantum mechanics might solve
both these problems.
No comments:
Post a Comment