Approach
The OpenSuperQPlus project aims to build a quantum computer that, in certain tasks, by far outperforms today’s classical supercomputers by moving from
…Classical Parallel Computing…
…to Quantum Computing…
Candidate applications: quantum simulation in chemistry and materials science, optimisation, network analysis, signal processing and machine learning
Quantum advantages:
- parallel computing without parallel hardware
- maximum of parallel processes: simultaneously processing the whole input
Quantum challenge:
- Probabilistic nature of quantum physics in measurement, readout, sampling
- Sensitivity of quantum computing systems to noise
The Stack
The targeted quantum computing system of up to 1,000 qubits consists of a full hard- and software stack.
The Hardware
Processor based on superconducting integrated circuits plus supporting technology: microwave electronics, control infrastructure and cryogenics.
Superconductor
- A quantum state showing lossless electrical conduction
- Common in metals (e.g. Al, Nb)
- Occuring at low temperature
Josephson Junction
- Thin barrier between superconductors
The Inner Part
- Left panel: A Josephson Junction at the heart of the qubit
- Right panel: A cross-shaped qubit with a Josephson Junction at the upper tip
- Cross-shape for connectivity
The Outer Part
- The chip must be connected to input and output
- Control: double chip package
- Bridges and pins required
Cryogenics
- Helium dilution cryostat
- Copper plates to maintain uniform temperature at different stages
- Input/output: large wiring load
- The shown insert is in an operated steel can
Control Electronics
- Qubit control and readout
- Scalable to large channel number
- Low latency and high synchronisation accuracy
- Specialised signal processing
Software
The software stack will be integrated from user access all the way to low-level control and run in a central facility
- Programming interface for users
- Operable in a high-performance computing environment
- Tight integration with classical computers