Control of Small Ensemble Electron Packets on Helium using a CMOS-Based CCD Architecture

Scalability remains one of the key outstanding hurdles to building a post-NISQ era quantum computer. The spins of electrons trapped above the surface of liquid helium are an ideal platform for scaling due to their long predicted coherence times, naturally compact spatial footprint, and integration with CMOS-based devices. In fact, CMOS charge-coupled devices have been used to successfully demonstrated exceptional clocking efficiency of electrons [1]. Here we report on efforts aimed at advancing this technology by describing devices designed to trap and control more than 10^4 electrons on a 5x5 mm^2 chip fabricated using a standard CMOS process. We discuss the key design elements for these CCD devices, how their performance is simulated, and present the current state of progress. We also present recent experimental data from similar devices designed to readout and control small packets of electrons.

1. Bradbury, F & Takita, Maika & Gurrieri, T & Wilkel, K & Eng, Kevin & Carroll, Malcolm & Lyon, S. (2011). Physical Review Letters. 107. 266803.