Signal amplification: Whenever data is sent from point A to point B, whether on a copper cable, using fibre optics or any other means, the signal carrying the data loses strength due to resistance, interference or dispersion. Amplification helps ensure minimal data loss.
Noise can disrupt not only data transmission but also interfere with other forms of telecommunication and remote sensing such as radar detection.
That’s where Qubic Technologies comes in. The Sherbrooke, Quebec-based startup with a lab in Waterloo, Ontario, is at the forefront of a new solution to this decades-old problem. Using superconducting quantum circuits, the company is improving signal quality and reliability while reducing both noise as well as heat and energy needs.
“By exploiting the quantum properties of materials on the one hand, and specifically quantum concepts such as superposition and entanglement on the other, we are able to minimize the noise that will be injected during the signal processing, which will improve the efficiency of the system, improve the responses we’ll be able to get, and reduce the errors that will be made along the way,” said Jérôme Bourassa, founder and CEO of Qubic Technologies.
He says the one of the key practical applications is improved radar detection systems which will significantly improve quality and efficiency in uses ranging from drone detection near airports to securing the arctic coastline.
‘We’re really working with quantum materials like superconductors to operate microwave signals at the limit of what the fundamental laws of science allow us to do.’ – Jérôme Bourassa, founder and CEO, Qubic Technologies
“This could include radar systems that have the ability to operate and detect objects at a distance, without being able to detect that we’re transmitting a signal. For example, it would undeniably be a strategic advantage to have a stealth radar system which is extremely difficult, if not impossible, for the enemy to detect,” he said.
Rubayet Al Maruf is head of nanofabrication at Qubic Technologies and says the company’s approach has led to unique breakthroughs in the development and application of amplifiers using quantum technology.
“As far as I know, there is no other company which works exactly in the same technology that we are working on. We believe that our technology has the potential to disrupt the market,” he said.
The main hurdle to overcome, will be scaling up amplification devices without the issue of heat generation associated with traditional transistors.
“Once you begin introducing thousands of devices working together, the heat that is generated is essentially unmanageable,” Rubayet said. “Our technology uses an amplifier made of superconducting materials, so it will generate almost zero heat.”
CMC Microsystems impact
“CMC is doing a great job that is creating a collaborative research environment,” Rubayet said. “They help make the licenses for very essential engineering and scientific software accessible. CMC also helps with the process of realizing the device, like fabricating different types of prototypes and processes that would otherwise be almost impossible.”
For founder Jérôme Bourassa, all that has helped set the stage for a future looks bright – and cool. With technology that will produce 10,000 times less heat than current transistors, he sees limitless possibilities beginning in the very near future.
“I imagine a company that’s going to be really booming with a first amplifier on the market soon, as well as advanced R&D projects with key partners to further develop our quantum remote sensing platform that will be in the field by 2030,” he said. “Looking at some really great projects with several partners and a team that’s constantly growing, we’re starting a period that’s going to be very exciting over the next 10 years.”
Photo credit:
Rubayet Al Maruf
Courtesy of Qubic Technologies
May 2025