Archer has demonstrated the capability of its TMR sensors to perform magnetic field measurements at cryogenic temperatures, paving the way for potential deployment in quantum computing systems.
The company’s TMR sensors, fabricated by a foundry partner and integrated into a cryogenic-compatible test platform, are intended to advance the technology used in quantum systems. The integration process utilised Archer’s quantum technology, cryogenics, and semiconductor device expertise.
The sensor development forms part of Archer’s 12CQ quantum project, which aims to create magnetic sensors with high sensitivity, broad bandwidth, and low power consumption to replace traditional sensing technology in demanding environments.
Cryogenic performance
Simon Ruffell, Chief Executive Officer of Archer, stated the significance of this milestone for the company.
“The achievement of this milestone confirms that our TMR sensor technology can operate in the extreme conditions needed for quantum applications. It is a major enabler for integrating advanced capabilities into cryogenic systems for applications like magnetic noise cancelling for quantum computing or sensing conditions like those in space.”
This demonstration supports the view that TMR sensor integration could contribute to the enhancement of quantum computing platforms and other cryogenic applications. The capability of the sensors at notably low temperatures is highly relevant as quantum technology moves towards applications that require stable and precise environmental monitoring.
Quantum computing applications
Quantum computing platforms require stringent magnetic environments, as ambient magnetic field fluctuations can degrade qubit fidelity, leading to reduced performance. Shielding is routinely used in current cryogenic quantum systems to combat such fluctuations. However, as scaling efforts continue, additional active solutions such as magnetic field cancelling will become essential.
Sensors like Archer’s TMR devices could provide real-time monitoring and characterisation of magnetic noise, potentially creating new approaches to noise mitigation and improving the quantum coherence times that are crucial for reliable device operation.
The company expects that these TMR sensors could outperform existing sensing solutions in certain applications, opening opportunities for enhanced diagnostics and control of quantum hardware.
Wider implications
The success of TMR sensor operation at cryogenic temperatures could support not only quantum computing and sensing but also broader areas, including advanced sensing technologies, aerospace, space exploration, and research in cryogenics. High-resolution magnetic field sensing in such extreme environments is becoming increasingly vital as hardware architectures become more sophisticated and error resilience becomes a core focus in the quantum sector.
Archer has stated that its technology will be designed to provide key support for the diagnostic and stabilisation processes necessary in next-generation quantum hardware development. As the industry advances, these functionalities are expected to gain increasing importance.
Strategic steps
Looking ahead, Archer is exploring opportunities to form strategic partnerships and engage with customers to serve emerging markets. The focus areas include quantum instrumentation, cryogenic hardware systems, low-temperature physics research and development tools, and customised sensor modules for space and defence applications.
The demonstration of TMR sensor functionality at cryogenic temperatures is part of Archer’s ongoing effort to develop advanced semiconductor devices that meet the technical requirements of emerging industry directions.