Building The First Fully Open Source and Hackable Quantum Sensor

Researchers at the Quantum Village, coinciding with the International Year of Quantum, have developed a fully open-source, hackable quantum sensor for magnetic field measurement. The device utilises a Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) Centre Diamond, where defects within the diamond lattice exhibit quantum properties and sensitivity to external magnetic fields, enabling magnetometry. This project details the technology and signal acquisition necessary for construction, with a stated aim of exploring applications including medical technology and countermeasures against GPS jamming, as well as investigations into inferring chip behaviour through the measurement of magnetic fields emanating from electronic components. The initiative deliberately promotes accessibility to quantum technology, challenging the conventional requirement for advanced degrees and specialised laboratory facilities to engage with such systems. Learn more at DEF CON 33 on August 9th or chat to the team, Mark Carney and Victoria Kumaran.

Quantum sensing, a field rapidly transitioning from theoretical possibility to practical deployment, is increasingly accessible beyond the confines of traditional research institutions. While the realisation of universal quantum computing remains a substantial long-term undertaking, quantum sensing technology is demonstrably deployable today and poised for broader application across diverse sectors. This progression is exemplified by the development and release of the first fully open-source, hackable quantum sensor, specifically designed for the measurement of magnetic fields utilising readily available components and a sample of Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) Centre diamond.

The core of this innovative device lies in the exploitation of NV centres – point defects within the diamond lattice where a carbon atom is replaced by a nitrogen atom adjacent to a vacant lattice site. These defects exhibit unique quantum mechanical properties, most notably the ability to exist in multiple quantum states that are highly sensitive to external magnetic fields. This sensitivity arises from the spin of unpaired electrons associated with the NV centre, which interacts with ambient magnetic fields, causing measurable changes in the emitted fluorescence. The magnitude of this fluorescence change is directly proportional to the strength of the magnetic field, allowing for precise magnetometry – the technical term for magnetic field measurement. The research team, comprised of members from Quantum Village and collaborating institutions, has meticulously documented the construction of this sensor, detailing the necessary technology, signal acquisition techniques, and data processing methodologies.

The open-source nature of the project is a deliberate attempt to democratise access to quantum technology. Traditionally, the development and deployment of such sensors have been limited to well-funded research laboratories with highly specialised expertise. This project, however, provides detailed instructions, schematics, and software, enabling individuals with varying levels of technical proficiency to build and experiment with a functioning quantum sensor. The team deliberately challenges the perception that advanced degrees and specialised laboratories are prerequisites for engaging with quantum technology, advocating for accessibility and encouraging innovation at all levels. “We wanted to show that you don’t need a billion-dollar lab to play with quantum mechanics,” explains a spokesperson for Quantum Village.

The sensor’s potential applications are wide-ranging. The team highlights opportunities in medical technology, where precise magnetic field measurements could facilitate improved brain imaging or targeted drug delivery. Perhaps more immediately, the research explores the possibility of utilising the sensor as a countermeasure against GPS jamming. By detecting subtle magnetic anomalies, the sensor could potentially identify and locate sources of interference, enhancing navigational resilience. However, a significant focus of the project lies in ‘hacking’ the sensor – that is, exploring its application in reverse engineering electronic components through magnetometry. By mapping the magnetic fields emitted by integrated circuits, it may be possible to infer chip behaviour, identify vulnerabilities, or even clone designs. This is achieved by carefully scanning the chip with the quantum sensor and interpreting the resulting magnetic field profile.

The project will be showcased through the Quantum Village Badge. The badge serves as both a demonstration of the technology and a platform for community experimentation. The team meticulously documented the construction and calibration process, providing a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in replicating the results. The development was funded through a combination of private donations and grants from organisations supporting open-source hardware initiatives.