title: Quantum information with neutral atoms as qubits.
abstract: One of the essential features of a quantum computer is a quantum 'register' of well-characterized qubits. Neutral atoms in optical lattices are a natural candidate for such a register. We have demonstrated a patterned-loading technique that can be used to load atoms into large arrays of tightly confined but optically resolvable lattice sites. We have also seen preliminary indications of the Mott-insulator transition, which provides a route for single-atom initialization of the individual sites. Combining the two experiments should allow for large arrays of individually addressable single atoms, a system which provides a starting point for further quantum computation studies.
authors.affiliation: National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8424, USA.
authors.forename: J V
authors.initials: JV
authors.lastname: Porto
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Rolston
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Laburthe Tolra
authors.forename: C J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: W D
authors.initials: WD
authors.lastname: Phillips