The field for applications of quantum computing is wide. The public sector is well aware of this, and in the future, processors that are extremely powerful thanks to quantum effects could also take on complex tasks or solve problems in federal and public administration institutions. For example, the Berlin-based Bundesdruckerei and Stuttgart-based Q.ANT GmbH have already been cooperating since 2022 as part of a research development contract to investigate the applicability of quantum technologies.

Secure source of random numbers

As part of this collaboration, the first generation of Q.ANT chips has now been built into a processor. In a functional test, the Stuttgart-based company developed a system to simulate random numbers. Such random number sequences are difficult to generate and can be used, for example, to encrypt data. The system now presented even meets the test criteria of the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and could in the future provide another secure source of random numbers, in addition to conventional physical generators.

For a sovereign approach to quantum technologies

"As part of the Qu-Gov project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Finance BMF, we as a federal IT company are evaluating applications in the federal administration to enable the state to deal with quantum technologies in a sovereign manner," explains Dr. Oliver Muth, Project Manager and Senior Principal Secure Materials & Quantum Systems at Bundesdruckerei GmbH, and emphasizes, "We are pleased to have found a competent partner in Q.ANT, with whom we can jointly shape quantum computing and quantum communication 'Made in Germany'."

From the labs into everyday products

Q.ANT relies on its own technology platform for the quantum chips. The central components of the chips are so-called optical waveguides: they enable the control of light and quantum effects in a highly integrated form. This in turn is a prerequisite for bringing quantum technologies out of the laboratories and into everyday products. To build the chips, Q.ANT uses a material system that connects the silicon-based electronic world with the photonic world. In this system, very thin layers of lithium niobate are deposited on silicon and then patterned to form optical waveguides. Lithium niobate is now considered a possible key to future photonic quantum computing.

Important impetus for groundbreaking technology

Q.ANT founder and CEO Michael Förtsch welcomes the cooperation with Bundesdruckerei GmbH as an important impulse: "Government agencies and state-owned companies have a special significance as early adopters of innovative technologies. They promote forward-looking technologies and in this way support young companies. In addition, this helps to build up and establish high technology in Germany."

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