Superconducting computing: Lessons from an emerging technology

Superconducting computing has recently emerged as a potential solution for energy-efficient, large-scale computing. Problems in large-scale computing are reviewed. Superconducting computing is significantly different from conventional technologies and required a feasibility study [1] to evaluate its potential. Concepts were investigated for computing systems capable of performance in the range from 1 to 1000 PFLOP/s. The concept systems were constrained to use existing commercial cryogenic refrigerators and Nb superconducting technology. Superconducting computing was shown to be potentially competitive on the basis of power and energy efficiency if key component technologies can meet specific goals.