Brain-inspired chip runs near absolute zero and could transform quantum computing

2026-06-12 · Source: Artificial Intelligence News -- ScienceDaily · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Robotics & Autonomous Systems, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Expert, short

Summary

Scientists at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) have developed a brain-inspired chip capable of operating at temperatures as low as 10mK, just above absolute zero. This programmable neuromorphic hardware platform utilizes a novel method to generate negative differential resistance (NDR) in standard Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs. The team, led by Professor Yuhao Zhang and PhD student Xin Yang, demonstrated that a single SiC transistor can reproduce energy-efficient "spiking" activity akin to biological neurons. This innovation addresses a critical challenge in quantum computing by enabling control electronics to integrate directly with sensitive qubits, reducing power consumption, heat generation, and extensive wiring. The technology, published in Nature Communications on June 12, 2026, also holds promise for deep space missions due to its robust operation in extreme cold. Its reliance on existing SiC industrial foundries supports scalable manufacturing on 300-mm wafers.

Key takeaway

For AI Hardware Engineers designing quantum computing systems, this SiC neuromorphic chip changes your approach to cryogenic control. You can now integrate control electronics directly with qubits at millikelvin temperatures, significantly reducing wiring complexity and thermal load. Consider prototyping with SiC MOSFETs to develop more energy-efficient and scalable quantum processors, or for robust hardware in extreme cold environments like deep space.

Key insights

A brain-inspired SiC chip operates near absolute zero, enabling integrated quantum computing control and deep space applications.

Principles

• Silicon Carbide MOSFETs exhibit stable S-shape negative differential resistance below 2K via electron-donor impact ionization.
• Cryogenic neuromorphic circuits can be cascaded for larger networks and advanced local processing.

Method

Generate and control negative differential resistance (NDR) in standard Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs through electron-donor impact ionization (EDII) at millikelvin temperatures.

In practice

• Integrate control electronics directly with quantum processors to reduce thermal load.
• Develop robust hardware for deep space exploration in extremely cold environments.

Topics

• Cryogenic Electronics
• Neuromorphic Hardware
• Quantum Computing
• Silicon Carbide MOSFETs
• Negative Differential Resistance
• Deep Space Missions

Best for: AI Scientist, AI Hardware Engineer, Research Scientist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Artificial Intelligence News -- ScienceDaily.