Archer to develop quantum sensors

Quantum technologies research company Archer Materials has signed an agreement with Chinese magnetic sensor manufacturer MultiDimension Technology to develop a tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) sensor for commercial use in industrial applications.

TMR sensors detect and measure currents leveraging quantum phenomena and are ideal for many industrial applications including artificial intelligence, data centres, automotive, and internet-of-things, according to Archer.

Archer plans to finalise its TMR sensor design in the coming weeks, with the final design
to be sent to MDT for the manufacture of the first prototypes before the end of the
year.

The Executive Chair of Archer Greg English said: “Archer’s competitive edge in the TMR sensor market is rooted in its deep quantum expertise.

“Unlike traditional sensor manufacturers, Archer will harness the progress made in our 12CQ project to develop TMR sensors from a quantum-first perspective, allowing it to innovate faster and develop more efficient, cutting-edge products.

“…The TMR sensors provide an opportunity to apply quantum mechanics to create value, while Archer prepares the groundwork for breakthroughs in the rest of its 12CQ project.”

Archer’s main focus is in developing quantum computing chips which store and retrieve information at the subatomic level according to the ‘spin’ of electron surrounding a nucleus.

TMR sensors also rely on the quantum mechanical behaviour of electrons, with functionality depending on detecting the effects of this quantum behaviour at the nanoscale.

A sensor product would provide Archer with an opportunity to potentially generate revenue in the next one to two years and establish a market presence sooner, while maintaining its focus on quantum computing development, said Archer.

“Together, this builds a diversified product line that includes quantum technologies relevant to both sensors and quantum computing.”

Picture: Archer Materials