Fast quantum search algorithm for databases of arbitrary size and its implementation in a cavity QED system

► A modified Grover algorithm is proposed for searching in an arbitrary dimensional Hilbert space. ► Our modified algorithm requires fewer iteration steps to find the marked item. ► The proposed method uses the carriers of the information more economically. ► A scheme for a six-item Grover search in cavity QED is proposed. ► Numerical simulation under decays shows that the scheme can be achieved with enough fidelity.