Practical Limits of Error Correction for Quantum Metrology

TL;DR

This paper investigates the practical limitations of using quantum error correction in quantum metrology, showing it can be beneficial but faces significant technological challenges to reach optimal precision.

Contribution

It analyzes the discrete application of quantum error correction in realistic settings and identifies key factors needed to achieve Heisenberg limit precision.

Findings

Quantum error correction can improve quantum metrology performance.

Current technological limitations prevent achieving the Heisenberg limit with error correction.

Identifies factors that need technological improvements for reliable Heisenberg limit attainment.

Abstract

Noise is the greatest obstacle in quantum metrology that limits it achievable precision and sensitivity. There are many techniques to mitigate the effect of noise, but this can never be done completely. One commonly proposed technique is to repeatedly apply quantum error correction. Unfortunately, the required repetition frequency needed to recover the Heisenberg limit is unachievable with the existing quantum technologies. In this article we explore the discrete application of quantum error correction with current technological limitations in mind. We establish that quantum error correction can be beneficial and highlight the factors which need to be improved so one can reliably reach the Heisenberg limit level precision.