A Quantum Leap in the Making – Meet Tomorrow's Super Super Computers

Now, imagine an entirely different kind of computer, with head-spinning power, using mind-bending quantum mechanics to bring barely believable capabilities to life. A super super computer that can tackle calculations that the most powerful conventional machines would need decades to process – in a split second. This contraption – which resembles a baroque chandelier that could have hung at Versailles – is a quantum computer. They probably won't replace today's computers – don't expect your next laptop to be a quantum device – but they will be able to tackle certain boxed and highly complex tasks that force traditional computers to throw in the towel. If there are near-endless possible answers to a clearly defined problem, a quantum computer will find the solution much quicker than any conventional computer.