Scalable quantum link generation with integrated microwave-to-optical transducers

Quantum computing systems powered by superconducting qubits face a set of scaling challenges that limit their computing potential. Quantum microwave-to-optical transducers enable links between remote quantum processors and could unlock increased computing power through a distributed quantum network. Here we present an overview of the performance requirements and tradeoffs for such quantum transducers to realize high-rate high-fidelity entanglement, including the necessity and practical considerations for integration of a large number of transduction channels. We describe several on-demand entanglement protocols with example link configurations of how they might be implemented using transducers and other supporting hardware such as quantum memories and auxiliary qubits. Finally, we evaluate the feasibility of proposed architectures that benefit from quantum links with present and near-term transduction hardware. Together, this work provides relevant context that will drive the development of quantum transducers towards the essential metrics for distributed entanglement.