Quantum computing with trapped ion hyperfine qubits

We discuss the basic aspects of quantum information processing with trapped ions, including the principles of ion trapping, preparation and detection of hyper-fine qubits, single-qubit operations and multi-qubit entanglement protocols. Recent experimental advances and future research directions are outlined. KEY WORDS: Ion trapping; hyperfine qubits; quantum gates; qubit detection; qubit initialization; entanglement