Fast Quantum Interconnects via Neutral Atom Ensembles

Distributing entanglement between distant qubits is a crucial element of scalable quantum computing. Here, we describe a scalable quantum interconnect that generates remote entanglement at rates approaching those compatible with two-qubit gates of current neutral-atom quantum processors. The proposed approach exploits the strong dipole-dipole interactions between atomic Rydberg states to generate entanglement between stationary qubits and propagating photons, without the need for an optical cavity. We provide a thorough description of the optimal conditions for the developed entanglement-generation protocol for realistic experimental parameters and demonstrate that entanglement-generation rates $\gtrsim 3\times 10^5$ s$^{-1}$ can be achieved using Rydberg states of ytterbium atoms. Given the inherent scalability and design flexibility of the proposed interconnect, our results suggest a promising approach towards distributed networks based on neutral-atom quantum architectures.