Integrated optical circuit with fiber optic connections (top and bottom). The modulator signals are fed in via the gold electrodes on the sides.
watermark —

New lithium niobate technology revolutionizes optical switches for AI and quantum computers

Researchers at Fraunhofer IOF and the Institute for Applied Physics (IAP) have developed a new basic technology for integrated optical switches.
Integrated optical circuit with fiber optic connections (top and bottom). The modulator signals are fed in via the gold electrodes on the sides.
Image: Fraunhofer IOF
  • Light
  • Forschung

Published:

With the help of thin-film lithium niobate (LNOI), photonic circuits can now be realized even more energy-efficiently, quickly and compactly. The technology offers great potential for applications in quantum computers and artificial intelligence, as it enables particularly high bandwidths and low power losses.

In addition to Dr. Falk Eilenberger from Fraunhofer IOF, PD Dr. Frank Setzpfandt (IAP) is significantly involved in the development. As part of the “PhoQuant” project funded by the BMFTR (formerly BMBF), the teams are working on photonic quantum computers that do not require complex cooling and open up new ways of processing data.

The results will be presented from June 24 to 27 at the “World of Quantum” trade fair in Munich at the Fraunhofer stand A2.415.