Over the last few years, there has been an increase in news about quantum computing. Much of this news coverage has been around computing supremacy, potential threats to information security and quantum cryptography. While the field of quantum computing is still in its early stages, there are several companies who have already developed quantum computers. And these companies often leverage proprietary semiconductor fabrication technologies to build chips for their quantum computers. As such, much information about their semiconductor chips is not publicly disclosed. On top of that, media coverage tends to emphasize practical applications of quantum computing rather than the underlying semiconductor technologies. Achievements like quantum supremacy demonstrations, advancements in quantum algorithms, and industry collaborations often take precedence in news coverage over semiconductor technologies. Nonetheless, quantum computing is not possible without semiconductors that are capable of operating at temperatures near absolute zero. These cryogenic semiconductors are fundamental components of quantum computing systems and a recent announcement by Siemens EDA provides some insights into what is involved in designing these cryogenic chips.
Siemens EDA is collaborating with sureCore and Semiwise to develop quantum computing ready cryogenic CMOS chips. The technologies and solutions developed through this collaboration have the potential to redefine the boundaries of high-performance computing.
Quantum Computing and Cryogenic Chips
Quantum computing relies on quantum bits or qubits, which exhibit quantum mechanical properties such as superposition and entanglement. To maintain the delicate quantum states necessary for computation, qubits must be shielded from external disturbances, such as thermal noise and electromagnetic interference. Operating at cryogenic temperatures helps mitigate these challenges and stabilizes the quantum states, reducing errors and enhancing the reliability of quantum computations. Cryogenic chips are essential for constructing control electronics, enabling the precise manipulation and measurement of qubits.
Semiwise specializes in the development of advanced cryogenic CMOS circuit designs, particularly focusing on technologies that operate at temperatures near absolute zero. The company’s value proposition centers on its expertise in creating cryogenic SPICE models and simulator technology using Siemens’ Analog FastSPICE (AFS) platform. Leveraging these technologies, Semiwise contributes crucial intellectual property (IP) to sureCore, paving the way for the design of CryoCMOS control chips vital for quantum computing.
SureCore specializes in low-power memory solutions, with a primary focus on advancing energy-efficient and high-performance integrated circuits. The company’s value proposition lies in its innovative approach to designing and delivering low-power IP cores. In developing its CryoIP product line, sureCore taps into crucial IP from Semiwise. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, such as Siemens’ Analog FastSPICE platform and Solido™ Design Environment software, SureCore is at the forefront of developing revolutionary CryoCMOS control chips designed to operate in extreme cold conditions. SureCore’s commitment to developing robust cryogenic IP cores tailored for quantum applications positions it as a key player in the race to unlock the full potential of quantum computing while emphasizing energy efficiency and performance in semiconductor design. sureCore is rapidly progressing towards its first CryoIP tapeout, leveraging GlobalFoundries’ 22FDX® PDK.
In this announced partnership, Siemens EDA is contributing crucial elements to Semiwise and sureCore to enable the development of cryogenic semiconductor designs. Siemens brings a wealth of expertise to the table, particularly in analog/mixed-signal IC design technology, a cornerstone in the intricate landscape of quantum computing systems. The company’s Analog FastSPICE platform and Solido™ Design Environment software play pivotal roles, providing advanced tools for the design, simulation, and verification of cryogenic CMOS circuits. This enables Semiwise to build accurate and reliable cryogenic transistor models. This in turn is empowering sureCore to construct accurate and reliable analog circuits, standard cell libraries, and memory designs including SRAM, register files, and ROM.
The collaboration between Siemens, sureCore, and Semiwise marks a significant step forward in the quest for practical quantum computing. By developing cryogenic semiconductor designs capable of operating at near absolute zero temperatures, the partnership aims to overcome critical challenges in realizing the full potential of quantum computing. The technologies developed through this collaboration could reshape the landscape of quantum computing capabilities, opening doors to a broader base of innovators for unprecedented advancements in various industries.