WThA: Microwave Measurements Supporting Quantum Technologies

Abstract
Quantum technologies such as quantum computing are rapidly evolving from theoretical promise to technological frontier, driven in large part by innovations in microwave engineering. At the heart of many quantum platforms — especially superconducting qubits — lie microwave signals and components that enable precise control and readout of quantum states. These systems operate in extreme cryogenic environments, often at temperatures below 50 millikelvin, where conventional microwave techniques face unprecedented constraints. As quantum processors scale to accommodate hundreds or thousands of qubits, the microwave infrastructure required to support them grows exponentially. This includes a dense network of coaxial cabling, attenuators, filters, amplifiers, and interconnects, all of which must perform reliably under cryogenic conditions. The resulting demands on thermal management, spatial efficiency, and signal fidelity are formidable, and they call for a new generation of microwave design and metrology tailored to quantum applications. This workshop will explore the role of microwave technologies in enabling quantum control and readout and examine the unique challenges of cryogenic measurements for semiconductor and superconductor components. Topics will include calibration and uncertainty analysis in quantum-limited regimes, design strategies for minimizing heat load while maximizing signal integrity, and the development of emerging standards for benchmarking quantum hardware. Attendees will hear from a diverse lineup of speakers including quantum system developers, microwave instrument manufacturers, academic researchers, and national metrology institutes, who are tackling the practical challenges of building scalable quantum computers.