Telecoms giant Vodafone plans to explore the use of quantum technology in identifying the fastest and most cost-effective routes for upgrading and extending fixed and mobile broadband connections to more customers.
The project, which is being conducted in partnership with ORCA Computing, is expected to significantly reduce inefficiencies. Quantum computing has the potential to handle more complex processing tasks than a traditional computer when planning, installing and optimising large mobile radio and gigabit broadband networks.
Vodafone’s software will be run on ORCA Computing’s quantum computer – the ORCA PT-2 Series photonic quantum system. The solutions generated by the quantum system could, for example, help reduce total cable length and optimise the location of mobile base stations to maximise speed and minimise major civil engineering work.
The Vodafone–ORCA Computing partnership builds on the joint UK government and private sector Quantum Technology Access Programme (QTAP).
At a recent QTAP event, Vodafone worked with ORCA Computing and other industry partners to quickly solve the Steiner Tree Problem, a complex mathematical challenge used today to identify the most cost-efficient way to extend connectivity.
Vodafone used the ORCA PT-2 quantum computer to run an optimisation algorithm to work out a particular equation problem in minutes, paving the way for these systems to quickly solve problems that would otherwise take hours using classical computers.
As part of the new project, Vodafone will initially assess ORCA’s quantum technology for solving complex optical fibre cable design challenges.
Over time, Vodafone expects to use quantum principles more widely when modelling its global network, which spans more than 200 destinations, including an undersea cable network transporting around a sixth of the world’s internet traffic, and a new direct-to-mobile broadband satellite communications system.
“Our work with ORCA Computing aims to solve ultra-complex problems which otherwise would take many hours, weeks and even years to process on today’s classical computers,” said Luke Ibbetson (Head of Research & Development at Vodafone).
“Modelling new networks that maximise speed, reliability and coverage for customers, while navigating urban clutter and rural obstacles, could in the future take minutes,” he said.
Leave a Reply