HOBOKEN, N.J.—Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi), an integrated photonics and quantum optics technology company, has reached the final stage of commissioning its quantum photonic chip foundry in Tempe, Arizona, the company said in a release.
The QCi Foundry, originally announced in September 2023, is described by QCi as a “first-of-its-kind” foundry. It will focus on processing thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) to produce high-performance optical components and photonic integrated circuits (PICs). These photonic chips will serve as essential optical engines for photonic-based quantum computers, secure quantum communications, and 3.2Tbps data rates for datacom, QCi stated in the release.
According to QCi Director of PIC and Foundry Service Pouya Dianat, Ph.D., QCi’s key technological advantage lies in its precision etching of TFLN, which minimizes the loss of photons in a PIC; and its wafer-scale production capabilities for TFLN optical components, such as electro-optic modulators and waveguides.
“The QCi Foundry will be the first U.S.-based semiconductor foundry of its kind, set to enhance the capabilities and capacity of TFLN devices,” Dianat said in the release. “These innovations will also pave the way for advancements and applications in national defense and technology.
“Additionally, the foundry will meet the growing demand and market needs for rapid prototyping and scalable production of photonic integrated circuits,” Dianat continued. “QCi’s proprietary TFLN processing technology will provide customers with the agility and confidence necessary for the reliable, seamless integration of TFLN photonic engines into their product lines and offerings.”
The QCi Foundry has moved into its final phase of construction and capital equipment installation, with an anticipated grand opening set for the first quarter of 2025. As part of its launch strategy, QCi stated that it will offer early access to customers and early adopters at favorable rate and terms. The company’s initial wafer runs will focus on custom runs for selected clients, with plans for a multi-project wafer (MPW) run available in the second half of 2025, the release stated.
Quantum Computing Inc.’s products are designed to operate at room temperature and low power at an affordable cost. The company’s portfolio of core technology and products are reported to offer “unique capabilities in the areas of high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, as well as remote sensing applications.”