#United Kingdom #sureCore #Sarcina #CryoMem #Sheffield

Introduction

In a significant advancement for semiconductor technology, sureCore has recently partnered with Sarcina to create custom packaging solutions for cryogenic chips. This collaboration follows sureCore's announcement regarding its development of a range of Cryogenic Intellectual Property (IP), which is essential for the growing Quantum Computing (QC) ecosystem. The partnership aims to provide robust and reliable chip packaging capable of withstanding extreme low temperatures, essential for the efficient operation of quantum devices.

The Importance of Cryogenic Technologies

As the demand for Quantum Computing technology increases, the need for effective cryogenic solutions becomes paramount. Quantum Computers operate at temperatures close to absolute zero, where traditional semiconductor technology fails. The successful integration of control electronics within this environment can significantly reduce the latency and cost associated with quantum systems, marking a crucial step towards mainstream adoption.

Collaboration Overview

sureCore's CEO, Paul Wells, emphasized the partnership with Sarcina as a pivotal advancement in making Cryo-CMOS available for the QC market. Their CryoMem™ range of memory IP has proven its reliability through silicon validation, and the new collaboration with Sarcina brings forth a uniquely designed package that ensures performance under cryogenic conditions. Wells stated, “Reliable and robust cryo-ready chip packaging is a necessity in these harsh, low-temperature environments.” This solution is designed to interface with qubits effectively, aligning with the increasing complexity within the quantum computing sector.

On the other side, Sarcina's CEO, Larry Zu, noted that their company has earned a reputation for pushing the boundaries of packaging technology, including creating solutions for extreme low-temperature functionality. Their innovative approach has led to the development of a custom Ball Grid Array (BGA) package designed specifically for cryogenic environments, showcasing Sarcina's expertise in semiconductor packaging.

The Innovate UK Project

This collaborative effort is part of a broader project funded by Innovate UK, which brings together a consortium of experts focused on developing cryo-tolerant semiconductor IP. The goal is to create a suite of foundational IP that can be licensed to help manufacturers develop their own Cryo-CMOS System on Chip (SoC) solutions. These advancements are poised to dramatically enhance competitive capabilities in the QC arena by facilitating innovative designs that integrate closely with qubit systems.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

A major challenge within the QC sector is the requirement to co-locate control electronics near qubits, which necessitates the adaptation of semiconductor technologies for ultra-low temperature performance. Typically, control electronics are situated outside the cryostat due to limitations of modern semiconductors, which can only function well down to about -40°C. The transistors’ performance significantly deteriorates as temperatures approach absolute zero, making this collaboration vital for the industry.

Through their joint research, sureCore and Sarcina have made strides in understanding how these transistors behave in extreme cold. By designing interface chips tailored for cryogenic operations, they aim to mitigate the reliance on extensive cabling that currently links room temperature control systems to the qubits, which can be a considerable source of latency and inefficiency.

Future Prospects

The ongoing work revolves around characterizing the demonstrator chip at cryogenic temperatures to refine models and optimize performance. This capability will allow Quantum Computing developers to implement fabless design paradigms and customize cryogenic control SoCs, increasing scalability and simplifying the integration of electronics within cryogenic environments.

In conclusion, the partnership between sureCore and Sarcina represents a significant leap forward in the quest for practical Quantum Computing technology. With tailored solutions designed to meet the unique demands of cryogenic operations, their collaboration is set to enhance the viability and efficiency of quantum devices, pushing the frontiers of technology further than ever imagined.

About sureCore

sureCore is recognized as a leader in low-power semiconductor design, specializing in providing innovative memory design services and products that enable the IC design community to achieve aggressive power targets.

About Sarcina Technology

Sarcina Technology has established itself as a prominent name in semiconductor packaging, offering comprehensive solutions that ensure high performance in demanding operational environments.