Trapped Ion Computer Construction Feasibility

An amateur researcher proposed building Open Quantum Design’s blade trap quantum computer using publicly available CAD files, citing accessible fabrication tools via their university lab. The project requires constructing a custom vacuum chamber, as existing lab equipment (optical table, turbo pump) is incompatible with the design’s ultra-high vacuum needs. Fabrication relies on CNC machines, water jet cutters, and hand tools, though material costs and precision demands remain significant hurdles for non-commercial builds. The inquiry targets trapped-ion specialists—students, post-docs, and professors—for feasibility assessments, highlighting gaps in DIY quantum hardware documentation. While CAD files suggest legitimacy, practical challenges like alignment, ion trapping stability, and error correction may exceed typical academic lab capabilities.