Quantum uncertainty and digital data

[paulselhi]

Is computer data ( stored or transmitted) immune to the effects of QU ? If not then with a program handling billions of bytes of electronic data is corruption due to QU ever an issue

 

[f95toli]

I am not quite sure what you mean by "quantum uncertainty" in this context. If you mean "Are there quantum mechanical effects that can cause a bit to spontaniosly flip from 0 to 1?" The answer is yes in principle (tunneling) but no for any real computer.

The reason is simply that compared to more mundane sources of noise (thermal noise, shot noise, noise coming from the enivironment etc) QM effects are completely negligeble and computers are designed with a rather large tolerance to noise.

Note, however, that tunelling IS a problem in modern processors in another context; it gives rise to leakage currents through the barriers in the transistors which in turn causes problems with heating.

somewhat OT:
Data corruption due to "random" hardware problems is very rarely a problem in a computer operating under normal conditions (nominal voltage bias). The main execption is in e.g. space applications where "radiation harding" is used. High energy radiation CAN actually cause data corruption (by literally flipping a bit) so in order to avoid this they simply make the circuits bigger; this is why even state-of-the art satellites use very slow computers; typical sizes can be of the order of a micron (whereas the processor in a typical desktop computer is fabricated using e.g. a 65 nm process).

 

[denian]

I can say that quantum uncertainty (QU) is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that describes the inherent unpredictability of the behavior of particles at the quantum level. It is a fundamental aspect of the universe and has been extensively studied and observed in various experiments.

In terms of digital data, QU does not have a direct effect on computer data as it is a macroscopic phenomenon and only applies to particles at the quantum level. However, it is important to note that all physical systems, including computer systems, are ultimately made up of quantum particles. Therefore, there is a potential for QU to indirectly affect digital data.

In terms of immunity, computer data is not completely immune to the effects of QU. While most digital data is stored and transmitted using classical computing methods, there are emerging quantum computing technologies that may have an impact on data storage and transmission. These quantum technologies utilize the principles of QU to perform calculations and may introduce errors or uncertainties in the data.

In addition, with the increasing amount of data being processed and transmitted in modern computer systems, the potential for corruption due to QU does exist. However, modern computer systems have built-in error correction mechanisms that can detect and correct errors in data transmission. As long as these mechanisms are functioning properly, the likelihood of data corruption due to QU is low.

In conclusion, while QU does not directly affect computer data, the potential for indirect effects and data corruption does exist. However, with proper error correction mechanisms in place, the impact of QU on digital data can be minimized. As technology continues to advance, it will be important to consider the potential effects of QU on digital data and develop strategies to mitigate any potential issues.