Exchange of a single motional quantum between trapped ions in a 2D RF microtrap array

Two-dimensional arrays of trapped ions with control over individual sites are promising systems for quantum computation and simulation of many-body phenomena. We have developed a microfabricated surface-electrode trap, fabricated by Sandia National Labs and operated at cryogenic temperatures, to realize a minimal two-dimensional array. This device creates a triangular array of individual trapping sites spaced 30 µm apart with sufficient degrees of freedom to independently control the motional mode frequencies and orientations of an ion trapped in each potential. In this poster we will discuss technical details of how the microtrap array is operated, and report on work developing protocols for selective manipulation and readout of the state of an ion in a particular trapping site through controlled reintroduction of excess micromotion. We also demonstrate tunable single-phonon exchange between ions in adjacent sites of the array through precise control of the site curvatures that determine the motional mode frequencies. This level of control over a single motional quantum can be used for simulations of systems such as bosons evolving in synthetic magnetic fields.