A non-running computer produces fewer errors

New Scientist magazine (February 2006, page 21) | 23 Feb 2006 | Edcoil

[edcoil]

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.

[edcoil]

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.

Bizarre maybe but I think it's cool.

[D.P.Roberts]

Think of how great this country would be if we could get Congress to not run!

[formercalifornian]

I don't understand any of this. But, somehow, I'm glad I don't.

[parsifal]

I don't understand this. Did the cat turn the computer on or not?

parsy, who demands the possibilty of an answer.

[caver]

I don't know, the whole article went right over my head.

[Netheron]

Yes, that's true.

For completely B.S. definitions of the phrase 'switched off'.

[TommyDale]

In a constant state, but not really "not running". Big difference. "Not running" would be like pulling the power plug.

[jigsaw]

I told my Mother that my brain is a quantum computer.

Did she believe me?

No!

Well, she might now.

[edcoil]

"even though the program did not run"

Seems to have nothing to do with power off or power on - it has to do with a program running.

[linear]

You are right on. It's running, just at a lower state. If we had better measurements, my guess is that we would say it is "running."

[dirtboy]

"A non-running computer produces fewer errors," says Hosten.

I think I'll try this at work. "If I don't work, I'll produce fewer errors." See how it goes over.

[Physicist]

A related thought problem: the Elitzur-Vaidman bomb-testing problem. If the only way to test a bomb is to trigger it and see whether it goes off, quantum mechanics can help you find which bombs would go off, without actually triggering them.

[Red Badger]

Must be a DU computer.........

[stainlessbanner]

Bizzaro

[Hannah Senesh]

LOL!

[GSlob]

"Think of how great this country would be if we could get Congress to not run!"
The trouble with your suggestion is, that while they would be both running and not running - simultaneously and in the same place - they would still demand [and receive with absolute certainty!- such is the quantum nature of the beast] their pay, perks and political contributions regardless. It might be a small price to pay, though.

[LexBaird]

I don't understand this. Did the cat turn the computer on or not?

Yes and no.

[Uriah_lost]

And here is the reason why we need a "none of the above" line on all ballots.

[stainlessbanner]

I voted to turn the computer off before it was on

[smug]

This is obviously the brain child of "sum pastie faced yankee mechanic".