Belden bolsters its quantum network position with Chicago Quantum Exchange pact

Belden has entered a partnership with the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE), a hub for quantum science and engineering, in a move that gives it a greater foothold in the quantum-safe networking solutions market. 

The CQE affiliation connects Belden to quantum research, startup ecosystems, and collaboration opportunities with major technology companies, national laboratories and academic institutions.

Belden said that the partnership represents Belden's latest evolution in its transformation from a connectivity product company to a comprehensive solutions provider.

"This partnership with CQE demonstrates our interest in emerging technologies, particularly the ones that have the potential to impact critical infrastructure, data and communications," said Hiran Bhadra, senior VP of strategy and technology.

A rising opportunity

Experts who follow Quantum computing note that the concept is approaching commercial reality. Further, these experts predict that "Q-Day" – when quantum computers can break certain encryption modalities – could become a reality in 2029.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) finalized post-quantum cryptography standards in 2024 and recommends adoption by 2030.

This creates a need for quantum-ready networking infrastructure, and Belden is positioning itself to drive the industry's transition to quantum-secure communications.

CQE’s collaboration drive

Like other emerging quantum hubs, CQE’s mission is centered around advancing quantum technology through a broader community of partners.

In collaboration with major universities, national labs, and industry partners, CQE is advancing the science and engineering of quantum information, preparing the quantum workforce, and driving the quantum economy.

It is based at the University of Chicago and anchored by the US Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Northwestern University, and Purdue University, and includes more than 50 corporate, international, nonprofit, and regional partners.

The CQE community includes 210+ scientists and engineers across seven member institutions. 

One example of the CQE’s work was seen recently when the University of Chicago and partners received $4 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to design next-generation quantum computers for broad scientific and educational access.

As it moves into its second phase, the Quantum Advantage-Class Trapped Ion System (QACTI) project aims to build two quantum computing systems: a 60-qubit “proof of concept” machine anticipated by 2029, and a 256-qubit ion trap computer by 2033. 

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