Single-atom transistor heralds quantum computing breakthrough

Australian scientists have demonstrated the world’s smallest transistor, just one atom in size, which they say is the result of new techniques to manipulate individual atoms with extreme precision.

The team from the University of New South Wales said that the breakthrough is a vital step in creating a super-fast quantum computer that will solve some of the "grandest technological challenges."

The team, lead by Professor Michelle Simmons, director of the ARC centre for quantum computation and communication technology, published details of the breakthrough in the journal Nature Nanotechnology. With the atom encased in ‘well understood’ silicon, the researchers say that the technique bodes well for mass manufacture.

If Moore’s Law holds true than single-atom transistors will be needed by 2020.