Cryogenic quantum computer control signal generation using high-electron-mobility transistors

Abstract

Multiplexed local charge storage, close to quantum processors at cryogenic temperatures could generate a multitude of control signals, for electronics or qubits, in an efficient manner. Such cryogenic electronics require generating quasi-static control signals with small area footprint, low noise, high stability, low power dissipation and, ideally, in a multiplexed fashion to reduce the number of input/outputs. In this work, we integrate capacitors with cryogenic high-electron mobility transistor (HEMT) arrays and demonstrate quasi-static bias generation using gate pulses controlled in time and frequency domains. Multi-channel bias generation is also demonstrated. Operation at 4 K exhibits improved bias signal variability and greatly reduced subthreshold swing, reaching values of ~6 mV/decade. Due to the very low threshold voltage of 80 mV at 4 K and the steep subthreshold swing, these circuits can provide an advantage over the silicon-based complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor equivalents by allowing operation at significantly reduced drive bias in the low output voltage regime <1 V. Together with their high-speed operation, this makes HEMTs an attractive platform for future cryogenic signal generation electronics in quantum computers. Alberto Ferraris and colleagues demonstrate a cryogenic circuit with a InGaAs-based quantum well transistors integrated with capacitors for the application of quantum computers. This system improves over Si CMOS by superior properties at cryogenic temperature and with a lower voltage supply, which is helpful to reduce the power consumption in the qubit control applications.