UCD spin-out launches world’s first silicon-based quantum computer server

19 March 2025

^{Equal1 chip Credit: Equal1}

Equal1, a UCD spin-out company, has launched the world's first silicon-based quantum computer server.

Named after Belfast-born physicist John Stewart Bell, the Bell-1 server was unveiled at the American Physical Society’s Global Physics Summit 2025 in California.

Bell-1 is also the first ever Irish-made quantum computer. Quantum computing is used to solve problems that are too complex for traditional computers.

Unlike traditional quantum systems, the silicon-based quantum server doesn’t rely on dedicated rooms and complex infrastructure, dramatically reducing energy consumption. 

It can be used in existing data centres and plugs into a standard power socket, making quantum computing simpler and more accessible.

According to the company, Bell-1 will make it possible for businesses to use quantum computing for AI, financial modelling, pharmaceutical research, and materials science.

^{The Bell-1 server Credit: Equal1}

“Bell-1 represents a paradigm shift in how quantum computing is deployed and utilised. We’ve taken quantum technology out of the lab and into real-world environments where it can drive innovation and solve complex computational challenges,” said Jason Lynch, CEO of Equal1. 

“This is the dawn of Quantum Computing 2.0 – where accessibility, scalability and practicality take centre stage. By eliminating the barriers of cost, infrastructure, and complexity, Equal1 is empowering businesses to harness the exponential power of quantum computing today – not in some distant future.”

Equal1 has offices at NexusUCD, and was formerly based at NovaUCD. The company also operates in the US, Canada, Romania, and the Netherlands, and currently employs about 45 people.

Its investors include Atlantic Bridge, Enterprise Ireland, European Innovation Council, Matterwave Ventures and 808 Ventures. 

By: Rebecca Hastings, Digital Journalist, UCD University Relations (with materials from Micéal Whelan, UCD Research and Innovation)

To contact the UCD News & Content Team, email: newsdesk@ucd.ie