New Journal of Physics (Jan 2016)

Operation of a planar-electrode ion-trap array with adjustable RF electrodes

  • M Kumph,
  • P Holz,
  • K Langer,
  • M Meraner,
  • M Niedermayr,
  • M Brownnutt,
  • R Blatt

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/18/2/023047
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 18, no. 2
p. 023047

Abstract

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One path to realizing systems of trapped atomic ions suitable for large-scale quantum computing and simulation is to create a two-dimensional (2D) array of ion traps. Interactions between nearest-neighbouring ions could then be turned on and off by tuning the ions’ relative positions and frequencies. We demonstrate and characterize the operation of a planar-electrode ion-trap array. By driving the trap with a network of phase-locked radio-frequency resonators which provide independently variable voltage amplitudes we vary the position and motional frequency of a Ca ^+ ion in two-dimensions within the trap array. Work on fabricating a miniaturised form of this 2D trap array is also described, which could ultimately provide a viable architecture for large-scale quantum simulations.

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