| dc.description.abstract |
<p>Among the various physical systems considered for scalable quantum information
processing (QIP), individually trapped ions or neutral atoms have emerged as promising
candidates. Recent experiments using these systems have demonstrated the basic building
blocks required for a useful quantum computer. In many of these experiments, precisely
tuned lasers control and manipulate the quantum bit (qubit) represented in the electronic
energy levels of the ion or atom. Scaling these systems to the necessary number of
qubits needed for meaningful calculations, requires the development of scalable optical
technology capable of delivering laser resources across an array of ions or atoms.
That scalable technology is currently not available.</p><p>In this dissertation, I
will report on the development, design, characterization, and implementation of an
optical beam steering system utilizing microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology.
Highly optimized micromirrors enable fast reconfiguration of multiple laser beam paths
which can accommodate a range of wavelengths. Employing micromirrors with a broadband
metallic coating, our system has the flexibility to simultaneously control multiple
beams covering a wide range of wavelengths. </p><p>The reconfiguration of two independent
beams at different wavelengths (780 and 635 nm) across a common 5x5 array of target
sites is reported along with micromirror switching times as fast as 4 us. The optical
design of the system minimizes residual intensity at neighboring sites to less than
40 dB below the peak intensity. Integration of a similar system into a neutral atom
QIP experiment is reported where 5 individually trapped atoms are selectively manipulated
through single qubit rotations with a single laser source. This demonstration represents
the first application of MEMS technology in scalable QIP laser addressing.</p>
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