Silicon-based Quantum Computation

Abstract

An architecture for a quantum computer is presented in which spins associated with donors in silicon function as qubits. Quantum operations on the spins are performed using a combination of voltages applied to gates adjacent to the spins and radio frequency magnetic fields applied resonant with spin transitions. Initialization and measurement of electron spins is made by electrostatic probing of a two electron system, whose orbital configuration must depend on the spin states of the electrons because of the Pauli Principle. Specific devices will be discussed which perform all the necessary operations for quantum computing, with an emphasis placed on a qualitative presentation of the principles underlying their operation. The likely impediments to achieving large-scale quantum computation using this architecture will be addressed: the computer must operate at extremely low temperature, must be fabricated from devices built with near atomic precision, and will require extremely accurate gating operations in order to perform quantum logic. Refinements to the computer architecture will be presented which could remedy each of these deficiencies. I will conclude by discussing a possible specific realization of the computer using Si/SixGe1–x heterostructures into which donors are deposited using a low energy focused ion beam.