b'Partner News Autumn 2022 29CorporateThe feedback received about the programmeAnother example demonstrating the value is testament to the impact of embeddingof utilising metrology expertise to solve research into industry. From providing smallcompanys challenges is a project which set current and quantum noise measurementsout to increase the scalability of cryogenicBy the end of 2024, theto physical characterisation of quantuminterconnects for quantum computing.Government, through materials, M4Q enables NPL to offer a range of measurements, consultancy and advice toWith increasing demands for lowvarious agencies, will have companies across the UK.temperature electronic components toinvested close to 1bn in support the development of quantum The scheme allows NPL to provide thecomputers based on cryogenic platformsquantum technologies confidence to accelerate projects that are(temperatures less than 1 kelvin),over ten years.making a difference in the real world.Intelliconnect required NPLs support with a For example, a recent project from M4Qtechnical problem of bridging the boundary saw NPL supporting QLM Technology Ltd tobetween a deep cryogenic quantum system test and validate their quantum-enabled gasand its room temperature control circuitry. imaging camera designed to cut methane leaks.Intelliconnect asked NPL to validate the reliable performance of their connector, QLM had already validated the systemincluding tests at low temperature. NPLs on well characterised gas samples, buttests have helped Intelliconnect characterise it wanted a better understanding of thetheir component and demonstrate that underlying physics of how exactly it worked,these connectors, with their smaller footprint so they could improve calibration, productper channel, can support the scaling-development and consumer confidence. up of quantum device technology in the NPLs recommendations provided QLM withspace-constrained environments of dilution a detailed understanding of the physics ofrefrigerators.their lasers, and an appreciation of new, practical ways to measure light absorption.By pairing the right expertise with the right challenge, we can accelerate the quantum The detailed understanding of the producttechnologies pathway from science to has helped QLM improve processes forapplication, embedding cutting-edge science component manufacturing and reduce thedirectly into the marketplace.cost of production.Building on the success of the M4Q scheme, Via the scheme, NPL also collaborated withNPL, via its Quantum Test and Evaluation Inex Microtechnologies, which resulted inProgramme, is formulating the best approach the company receiving Innovate UK grantto continue providing UK businesses with funding to further their work. Through theaccess to NPL quantum measurement project, NPL helped to design and calibrateexpertise for larger scale collaborative R&D components used in the production of atomicprojects. clocks. Information on M4Q and how to apply can Inex Microtechnologies makes vapour cellsbe found here: https://www.npl.co.uk/and supplies them to manufacturers ofmeasurement-for-quantumatomic clocks and magnetometers. Inex had a variety of measurement challenges concerning these cells. With their experience in atomic clocks and magnetometers, NPL was ideally placed to assist Inex with its goals and through the work, Inex were able to refine their design of a vapour cell. Using the project data and acquired measurement expertise, Inex were also able develop a bench top cell measurement device they could use for quality control in their manufacturing line. The ability to carry out in house quality control is likely to reduce manufacturing costs by 20% by reducing the number of rejected items.'