IQM Quantum Computers and Keysight Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding to “research the development of a quantum computing solution to enable on-premises high-performance computing,” according to a statement from the two companies.
It sounds like the pair are tackling one of the major hurdles to the proliferation of quantum computers. While specialized cloud services have allowed many users access to quantum computers, the market opportunity for on-premises quantum computers remains uncertain. Yet, there is growing interest in the potential for quantum computers to be used in close proximity with other high-performance computing systems to accelerate the capabilities of those systems.
“Our goal is to provide our customers and potential users globally with access to various solutions, and this unique partnership with Keysight will enable us to create an industry-leading solution for HPC-compatible on-premises quantum computing systems,” said Dr. Peter Eder, Head of Partnerships at IQM Quantum Computers. “With our strong position as the European leader in superconducting quantum computing, we will continue to build on our expertise to advance industry solutions and grow the ecosystem.”
“We are delighted to partner with IQM to deliver an industry-leading, on-prem quantum computing solution to enable scientific workflows in high-performance computing,” said Dr. Eric Holland, Director of Strategic Growth Initiatives for Keysight’s Quantum Engineering Solutions (QES) group. “With Keysight’s vast global reach, history of high-performance products, and strong quantum team coupled with IQM’s reputation and pedigree make for a compelling joint on-prem quantum solution to enable scientific computation.”
The collaboration will leverage Keysight’s fully digital quantum control system (QCS) electronic design automation (EDA) workflow software, as well as world-class quantum compilation, mitigation, and error diagnostic tools, the company said. Holland spoke about QCS and other matters in an October IQT Quantum Tech Pod interview.
IQM, based in Finland, announced earlier this year that it had raised more than $130 million in funding, and has since announced partnerships with an array of firms, including Atos, Qphox and Multiverse Computing. Keysight is based in Santa Rosa, California.
Dan O’Shea has covered telecommunications and related topics including semiconductors, sensors, retail systems, digital payments and quantum computing/technology for over 25 years.