But I still must post the obligatory Scotty photo.
Posted on 02/23/2006 3:58:12 AM PST by S0122017
Quantum computer works best switched off
Even for the crazy world of quantum mechanics, this one is twisted. A quantum computer program has produced an answer without actually running.
The idea behind the feat, first proposed in 1998, is to put a quantum computer into a “superposition”, a state in which it is both running and not running. It is as if you asked Schrödinger's cat to hit "Run".
With the right set-up, the theory suggested, the computer would sometimes get an answer out of the computer even though the program did not run. And now researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have improved on the original design and built a non-running quantum computer that really works.
They send a photon into a system of mirrors and other optical devices, which included a set of components that run a simple database search by changing the properties of the photon.
The new design includes a quantum trick called the Zeno effect. Repeated measurements stop the photon from entering the actual program, but allow its quantum nature to flirt with the program's components - so it can become gradually altered even though it never actually passes through.
"It is very bizarre that you know your computer has not run but you also know what the answer is," says team member Onur Hosten.
This scheme could have an advantage over straightforward quantum computing. "A non-running computer produces fewer errors," says Hosten. That sentiment should have technophobes nodding enthusiastically.
Journal reference: Nature (vol 439, p 949)
From issue 2540 of New Scientist magazine, 22 February 2006, page 21
lol
Do dolphins know the question?
"They stole this idea from John Kerry's "Plan"!"
That's what I was thinking..It was on before it was off.
Hmmm. So if I have a computer that works when it isn't on, can it also answer questions that haven't been asked?
Is this why I hear voices in my head even when I'm not listening to anyone?
That reminds me of an old joke:
Rene Descartes walks into a bar and orders a beer. He sits, drinking it slowly, nursing it for quite a while, but eventually he finishes it. The bartender, noticing this, asks Descartes "Would you like another?", at which point Descartes replies "I think not" and promptly disappears.
Damn that Descartes, never paid a bar tab in his life!
I title of the article is a bit misleading, it's journalism afterall. They want something to sound interesting.
The computer does run but at another level than computers are supposed to run.
It still requires input though, the input just doesnt have to be in direct contact with the computer.
Can I study by placing the book under my pillow?
Lol. Quantum effects occur at sub-atomic level, so if youre brain and book are in that size-range, yes.
Good grief ...
"There is a very high-level principle that says that something and its opposite can not exist at the same time." Nonsense.
The principle you might mean to invoke is better stated as "A thing may not both be and NOT be at the same time." You illustrate this in your next sentenced quite clearly.
"Any science that claims that a "cat" can be alive and dead at the same time is invalid." Again, nonsense.
NO 'science' claims this. Schroedinger used this imagery to illustrate a 'thought experiment' concerning the emerging model of Quantum Physics. ( N.B. No actual cats were harmed during the production and discussion of this model. )
To proceed from these defective premises to the conclusion that 'particle physics is not a true science' is simple evidence of deficient reasoning.
Once they engage that single photon, theorectically the computer is charged, thus "on". It also shouldn't have to play the '0' '1' binary interactive game to seek solution.
OK, brain hurts, need coffee.......
"as a photon might do interference with itself on a double slit as long as we detect where it NOT has gone through, in wich case the interference is not observed ?"
That's correct. You are understanding the theory---as long as you don't think about it!
...where's the "OFF" switch?
"Hmmm. So if I have a computer that works when it isn't on, can it also answer questions that haven't been asked?"
I understand your question. I would have answered it---had you not asked at.
"I am not, therefore I think"
I applaud your insight. Can't hear me? That's because I'm clapping with one hand.
"Rene Descartes walks into a bar and orders a beer. He sits, drinking it slowly, nursing it for quite a while, but eventually he finishes it. The bartender, noticing this, asks Descartes "Would you like another?", at which point Descartes replies "I think not" and promptly disappears."
I laughed this joke before I read it.
"Damn that Descartes, never paid a bar tab in his life!"
LOL!
But I still must post the obligatory Scotty photo.
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