An introduction to boson-sampling

TL;DR

Boson-sampling is a simplified, non-universal quantum computing model that could enable the first post-classical quantum computer, offering a more feasible approach than universal quantum computers through linear optics.

Contribution

This paper introduces boson-sampling, explaining its formalism, advantages over linear optics quantum computing, and assesses the feasibility of building such devices with current technology.

Findings

Boson-sampling is easier to implement than universal quantum computers.

Sampling with other quantum optical states is analyzed.

Feasibility of building boson-sampling devices with existing technology is discussed.

Abstract

Boson-sampling is a simplified model for quantum computing that may hold the key to implementing the first ever post-classical quantum computer. Boson-sampling is a non-universal quantum computer that is significantly more straightforward to build than any universal quantum computer proposed so far. We begin this chapter by motivating boson-sampling and discussing the history of linear optics quantum computing. We then summarize the boson-sampling formalism, discuss what a sampling problem is, explain why boson-sampling is easier than linear optics quantum computing, and discuss the Extended Church-Turing thesis. Next, sampling with other classes of quantum optical states is analyzed. Finally, we discuss the feasibility of building a boson-sampling device using existing technology.