Optical computing utilizes light’s speed to perform vector-matrix operations more efficiently. Harnessing the principles of light interference enables parallel computations, a key feature of quantum computing algorithms. This approach enhances processing speed and efficiency.
In a new study, physicists from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) interweave quantum computing with classical structured Light. They have created an innovative computing system using laser beams and everyday display technology, marking a significant leap forward in the quest for more powerful quantum computing solutions.
For this work, researchers harnessed the unique properties of Light.
Dr Isaac Nape, the Optica Emerging Leader Chair in Optics at Wits, said, “Traditional computers work like switchboards, processing information as simple yes or no decisions. Our approach uses laser beams to process multiple possibilities simultaneously, dramatically increasing computing power.”
Researchers built their system with laser beams, digital displays, and simple lenses. The breakthrough in optical computing lies in connecting how light interacts with optical devices, like digital displays and lenses, to the mathematical operations in quantum computing.
These operations, primarily multiplication and addition using vectors and matrices, are performed at the speed of Light. This innovation was demonstrated through the Deutsch-Jozsa algorithm, which tests whether a computer’s operation is random or predictable. Quantum computers can solve this problem much faster than classical computers, showcasing the potential of optical computing for quantum speed.
MSc student Mwezi Koni stated that this work could simulate even more complex quantum algorithms- unlocking new possibilities in areas like quantum optimization and quantum machine learning.
Koni said, “We’ve shown that our system can work with 16 different levels of information instead of just the two used in classical computers. Theoretically, we could expand this to handle millions of levels, which would be a game-changer for processing complex information.”
This development is particularly significant because of its accessibility. The system utilizes commonly available equipment, making it a practical choice for research laboratories with limited access to expensive computing technologies.
MSc student Hadrian Bezuidenhout said, “Light is an ideal medium for this kind of computing. It moves incredibly fast and can process multiple calculations simultaneously. This makes it perfect for handling complex problems that would take traditional computers much longer to solve.”
Journal Reference:
- Mwezi Koni, Hadrian Bezuidenhout and Isaac Nape. Emulating quantum computing with optical matrix multiplication. APL Photonics. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0230335
