IIT Bombay and TCS Partner to Develop India's First Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager

IIT Bombay partners with TCS to create a Quantum Diamond microchip imager, enhancing semiconductor quality control through advanced quantum sensing technology.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has announced a strategic partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to create India’s first Quantum Diamond microchip imager. This advanced sensing tool, to be developed at IIT Bombay’s PQuest Lab, aims to improve the quality control of semiconductor chips. Over the next two years, experts from TCS will collaborate with IIT Bombay to build this innovative device.

Improving Semiconductor Quality

The Quantum Diamond microchip imager will enhance the efficiency and reliability of electronic devices by reducing the chances of chip failures. This new tool leverages quantum sensing technology to provide a non-destructive method for examining semiconductor chips. As semiconductor components become increasingly smaller, traditional methods struggle to detect faults accurately. The Quantum Diamond microchip imager addresses this issue by using defects in a diamond’s structure, known as Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) centers, to identify and analyze anomalies in the chips.

National Quantum Mission Alignment

This collaboration aligns with India's National Quantum Mission, which aims to position the country as a leader in quantum technology. By integrating quantum diamond microscopy with AI and machine learning-powered software imaging, this project will help India advance in the global quantum technology race.

Wide-Ranging Applications

Beyond semiconductors, the Quantum Diamond microchip imager has potential applications in various fields. It can be used for fine-scale imaging of magnetic fields, biological imaging, and geological studies. The technology's versatility makes it a valuable tool for multiple sectors, including electronics and healthcare.

Expert Insights

Dr. Kasturi Saha, Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at IIT Bombay, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. "We are excited to work with TCS on developing a quantum imaging platform for the nondestructive examination of chips. Our expertise in quantum sensing will drive innovation and help transform various sectors."

TCS’s Chief Technology Officer, Harrick Vin, emphasized the importance of the project in the context of the Second Quantum Revolution. "The rapid progress in quantum technologies necessitates pooling resources and expertise to build advanced capabilities in sensing, computing, and communication."

Conclusion

The partnership between IIT Bombay and TCS marks a significant step forward in India's quantum technology journey. By developing the Quantum Diamond microchip imager, they are set to revolutionize semiconductor quality control and open up new possibilities in various scientific and industrial fields.

This initiative not only underscores India's commitment to technological innovation but also highlights the collaborative efforts needed to stay at the forefront of global advancements in quantum technologies.