Quantum computers are currently hypothetical machines which exploit the strange quantum behavior of matter at atomic scales (such as superposition and entanglement) to perform certain calculations far more rapidly than is possible on  any  conceivable  conventional  computer. 

    While it is possible that quantum computers will be an important 21st century technology, physicists must first learn  how  to  control  and  measure  complex  quantum  systems  with  extraordinary  precision.  

    The focus of research at LPS is to develop measurement techniques on quantum systems in solid state materials that are strong candidates to function as qubits in future quantum computers. Particular emphasis is on the use of single electron transistors to probe charge states of a superconducting quantum box and spin states of  electrons on a single impurity  in  a  silicon  crystal.

Information and animations for entanglement and single electron transistors were created by Andrew Skinner skinner@welkinresearch.com