New software allows simulations for early-adopter businesses

Berenice Baker, Editor, Enter Quantum

March 31, 2022

2 Min Read

One of the current challenges with quantum computing is the ability to be used at scale.

Quantum computers also are prone to errors that require resource-hungry correction procedures. 

As a result, businesses preparing to adopt quantum computing develop applications using simulation on reliable, classical high-performance computers (HPC) so they will be ready to run on quantum computers. However, simulations are limited in the size of quantum circuits they can simulate. 

In an attempt to alleviate this problem, Nvidia has just launched a suite of software development tools called cuQuantum to enable classical HPCs to simulate larger-scale quantum circuits than is currently possible. 

This means businesses can prepare software now that will be ready to run on quantum computers later. 

Canada-based Xanadu Quantum Technologies has integrated cuQuantum into PennyLane, its open-source framework for quantum machine learning and quantum chemistry.

Oak Ridge National Lab is using it in a framework for tensor network quantum circuit simulations, which are mathematical representations of quantum states. 

Quantum computers work best for specific types of calculations, so many future applications are likely to use a hybrid of quantum and classical computers to solve problems. Nvidia is also developing a programming language that lets quantum and classical computers talk to each other.

Known as nvq++, it works using Quantum Intermediate Representation (QIR), a type of low-level machine language that quantum and classical computers can use to talk to each other, making the most of hybrid applications.

Researchers have established the QIR Alliance to focus on the interface between quantum and classical computing to get the best from both of them. Led by the Linux Foundation, members include Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Quantinuum and Quantum Circuits. Researchers at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory are expected to be among the first to use this new software.

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About the Author(s)

Berenice Baker

Editor, Enter Quantum

Berenice is the editor of Enter Quantum, the companion website and exclusive content outlet for The Quantum Computing Summit. Enter Quantum informs quantum computing decision-makers and solutions creators with timely information, business applications and best practice to enable them to adopt the most effective quantum computing solution for their businesses. Berenice has a background in IT and 16 years’ experience as a technology journalist.

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