Quantum State Engineering with the rf-SQUID: A Brief Introduction

Quantum computers take advantage of the superpositional logic of quantum mechanics to allow for dramatic increases in computational efficiency. rf-SQUIDs show potential for quantum computing applications by forming the qubit component of a quantum computer, through simply treating the direction of current - clockwise or counterclockwise - as the value of the bit. rf-SQUIDs present a major advantage over atomic-scale qubit systems - they are sensitive to parameters that can be engineered. Flux qubits are linked through controlled inductive coupling: the magnetic field of each junction affects the others. The strength of this coupling can be 'tuned,' allowing for refined control over the behaviour of the system. rf-SQUIDs can also be mass produced on-chip, making large-scale production feasible.