What is Digital Direct Synthesis?
In quantum computing, manipulating fragile quantum states requires precise control. Traditionally, microwave signals used for qubit control are generated via mixers. The novel, cutting-edge Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) offers a more elegant, better performing, and scalable solution.
DDS bypasses the need for complex multi-component modulation, directly generating the desired microwave waveforms from digital data. This simplifies the setup and brings many advantages. It eliminates the need for analog local oscillators and calibration, improves agility and flexibility in playing tones, and allows for longer coherence times with lower phase noise and high spurious-free dynamic range. Moreover, it offers a practical path to cost-effectively scale and control large quantum processing units.