Method, quantum computer control system and quantum computer

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a computer implemented method for mapping signal ports in a quantum computer control system comprising a plurality of signal ports, the method comprising outputting at least one test signal on at least one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system, measuring at least one response signal on at least one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system, and determining a port mapping for the quantum computer control system based on the at least one test signal, and the at least one response signal. Further, the present disclosure provides a respective quantum computer control system and a respective quantum computer.

Description

[0001] Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0002] December 11 , 2024

[0003] 1 / 22

[0004] METHOD, QUANTUM COMPUTER CONTROL SYSTEM AND QUANTUM COMPUTER

[0005] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0006] The disclosure relates to a computer implemented method, a respective quantum computer control system and a respective quantum computer.

[0007] BACKGROUND

[0008] Although applicable to any type of measurement application, the present disclosure will mainly be described in conjunction with control of and measurements in quantum computing systems.

[0009] In quantum computing systems a plurality of manual cable connections needs to be established between the control system and the respective quantum computing unit. For example, in some quantum computing systems four cables for providing control signals and cables for performing measurements need to be connected for every single qubit of the quantum computing unit. This is a manual, and therefore, error-prone task.

[0010] Especially in future larger, useful quantum computing systems that may comprise about 10.000 qubits (ten thousand), the cabling effort for providing about 40.000 cables (forty thousand) is huge.

[0011] Accordingly, there is a need for simplifying the cabling effort in quantum computing systems.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] The above stated problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. It is understood, that independent claims of a claim category may be formed in analogy to the dependent claims of another claim category.

[0014] Accordingly, it is provided:

[0015] A computer implemented method for mapping signal ports in a quantum computer control system comprising a plurality of signal ports, the method comprising outputting at least one test signal on at least one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system, measuring at least one response signal on at least one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system, and determining a port mapping for the Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0016] December 11 , 2024

[0017] 2 / 22 quantum computer control system based on the at least one test signal, and the at least one response signal.

[0018] Further, it is provided:

[0019] A quantum computer control system comprising a plurality of signal ports, and a control unit, configured to execute computer readable instructions that cause the control unit to perform a method according to the present disclosure.

[0020] Further, it is provided:

[0021] A quantum computer comprising a quantum processing unit that comprises a plurality of ports, and a quantum computer control system according to the present disclosure, wherein each one of the ports of the quantum processing unit is coupled to one of the ports of the quantum computer control system.

[0022] The present disclosure is based on the finding that the effort for correctly wiring quantum computer control systems increases drastically with an increasing number of qubits being provided in the quantum computer control systems.

[0023] Usually quantum computers rely on computation with “quantum bits”, called qubits, which are grouped on a quantum computing processor or quantum processing unit, QPU. To operate the quantum computer, a quantum computer control system usually sends and receives analog signals to and from the QPU, that serve to guide the quantum algorithm and collect the respective results.

[0024] In quantum computers based on superconducting qubits or semiconducting spin qubits, each qubit typically requires around four analog control lines. These lines convey diverse signal types, such as DC bias currents, baseband (quasi-DC) and RF pulses, vital for different stages of quantum computation.

[0025] To function properly, such a quantum computer requires precise connections for these signals between each qubit and the control system. A large-scale, useful quantum computer would comprise at least 10,000 qubits. Consequently, about 40,000 analog cable connections would be required.

[0026] Currently, in the year 2024, state-of-the-art quantum computers comprise about 100 to 1000 qubits, with over 1000 analog connections manually made between the quantum computer control system and the QPU. In such quantum computers each port of the Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0027] December 11 , 2024

[0028] 3 / 22 quantum computer control system must be connected to its exact counterpart at the QPU, a meticulous, slow, and error-prone process.

[0029] The manual connection and routing of cables in quantum computers is a bottleneck towards useful quantum computing, which requires scaling way beyond 1000 qubits, for several reasons:

[0030] Maintenance or system upgrades are complicated and time intensive. Whenever the QPU or at least parts of the quantum computer control system need to be exchanged, the wiring has to be re-done manually and correctly. And the time effort alone required for connecting ten thousands of lines would lead to a decreased up-time of the quantum computer, which is not economical given the costs of such systems.

[0031] Therefore, the present disclosure provides the method for mapping signal ports in a quantum computer control system, and the respective quantum computer control system.

[0032] The present disclosure is based on the finding that a QPU’s architecture, such as the geometry and connectivity of the qubits, is usually defined during the design process of the QPU, and therefore, known in advance.

[0033] The method and the quantum computer control system according to the present disclosure make use of this knowledge to automatically determine the mapping or routing of analog control lines in the quantum computer.

[0034] The quantum computer control system comprises a plurality of signal ports. Each one of the signal ports may be capable of outputting a signal, receiving a signal or both. To this end, the quantum computer control system may comprise respective signal generation and measurement elements. In the quantum computer control system a control unit, e.g., a processor, may execute instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform the method according to the present disclosure.

[0035] In embodiments, the quantum computer control system may be a separate unit. In other embodiments, the quantum computer control system may be embedded in the cryostat of a quantum computer.

[0036] Prior to determining the mapping of the signal ports, cables are connected between the quantum computer control system and the QPU. However, instead of meticulously Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0037] December 11 , 2024

[0038] 4 / 22 connecting specific signal ports of the quantum computer control system with the ports of the QPU, the user may quickly perform a 1 -to-1 connection with each cable between a signal port and a port of the QPU according to their positions. Consequently, the first signal port may be coupled to the first port of the QPU and the second signal port may be coupled to the second port of the QPU and so on, without taking care of the functions of the respective ports.

[0039] Usually, in the QPU, the functions of the single ports are fixed and may not be changed. In the quantum computer control system according to the present disclosure, the mapping may be adapted e.g., in software or by a respective hardware-based switching matrix.

[0040] In order to determine the mapping of the signal ports in the quantum computer control system, at least one test signal is output on at least one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system. The test signal is an analog test signal that may be provided to the respective output port.

[0041] A test signal, when transmitted to the QPU via the respective port of the quantum computer control system will usually result in a respective response signal being detectable or measurable on at least one of the ports of the QPU, and therefore, the quantum computer control system.

[0042] As indicated above, the architecture of a QPU is usually know in advance.

[0043] Consequently, the resulting response signals that a test signal on any port of the QPU causes on other ports of the QPU, may be determined in advance. Such a determination may, e.g., comprise modeling and theoretical calculations of the circuits implemented in the QPU.

[0044] Consequently, at least one response signal is measured on at least one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system. The response signal is a signal caused on the respective port by the test signal being provided to the respective signal port of the quantum computer control system.

[0045] In embodiments, a response signal may be measured on each port of the quantum computer control system that the test signal was not provided to. Outputting the test signal and measuring at least one response signal may be repeated, especially, until all Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0046] December 11 , 2024

[0047] 5 / 22 signal ports or at least those signal ports actually coupled to a QPU have received a test signal.

[0048] A port mapping is then determined for the quantum computer control system based on the at least one test signal, and the at least one response signal. With the knowledge of the architecture of the QPU and the knowledge about the response signals to be expected based on such an architecture on each one of the ports of the QPU, it is, consequently, possible, to determine which port of the QPU the respective signal port that receives a response signal is coupled to. The expression “port mapping” refers to the function each one of the signal ports needs to perform and to what qubit this function needs to be provided. Generally, the “port mapping” refers to the information which qubit, and which qubit-related port in a quantum processing unit is coupled via a respective cable to one of the signal ports.

[0049] The generation and transmission of the test signal, and the measurement of the response signals may be performed for an arbitrary number of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system. It is understood, that generation and transmission of the test signals, and the measurement of the response signal may be performed for all signal ports of the quantum computer control system.

[0050] In embodiments, a user may at least indicate which signal ports of the quantum computer control system are coupled to a QPU by cables. This may be useful if the quantum computer control system comprises more signal ports than needed. The user may e.g., select the respective signal ports on a display. Such a display may be part of the quantum computer control system. As alternative, or in addition, an automatic measurement may be performed in order to identify signal ports that have a cable connected to them.

[0051] With the method and the quantum computer control system according to the present disclosure, a solution to a key bottleneck in quantum computing is provided and large- scale quantum computers may easily be set up. Application of the present disclosure results in a fully tuned-up and operation of quantum computer, ready to execute quantum algorithms. The present disclosure significantly reduces the time and potential for human error associated with manual calibration, thereby enabling scalable and modular deployments for quantum computers with a higher qubit count. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0052] December 11 , 2024

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[0054] Users benefit from significantly reduced setup times and increased reliability of quantum computing systems, allowing them to focus resources on experimentation and deployment of quantum technologies. Further, the automation of manual processes reduces operational costs and minimizes downtime, offering users a more cost-effective path to scaling their quantum computing systems. The plug-and-play nature further enhances system maintainability, providing users with easier upgrade paths and adaptability in the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing.

[0055] Further embodiments of the present disclosure are subject of the further dependent claims and of the following description, referring to the drawings.

[0056] In the following, the dependent claims referring directly or indirectly to claim 1 are described in more detail. For the avoidance of doubt, the features of the dependent claims relating to independent claim 1 can be combined in all variations with each other and the disclosure of the description is not limited to the claim dependencies as specified in the claim set. Further, the features of the dependent claims referring to independent claim 1 may be combined with any of the features of the other independent claims or the dependent claims relating to any one of the other independent claims. In a respective method, respective method steps may perform the function of the respective apparatus elements, and in a respective apparatus, respective apparatus elements may perform the respective method steps.

[0057] In an embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, determining the port mapping may comprise performing predetermined analysis of the at least one response signal at least one of in the frequency domain and the time domain.

[0058] Analysis of the response signals in the frequency domain and the time domain allow determining specific properties of a respective response signal that provide information about how the test signal was modified on the way from the signal port that was used to output the test signal to the signal port that provided the response signal.

[0059] In another embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, outputting at least one test signal may comprise outputting a pulse signal with a predefined pulse shape to the respective at least one signal port. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0060] December 11 , 2024

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[0062] The test signal may, e.g., comprise a pulse of a specific length, and amplitude. The test signal may also comprise CW RF signals, also called continuous wave RF signals.

[0063] A pulse with a short duration and a high amplitude in the frequency domain comprises a rather large or broad spectrum. Such a pulse, therefore, allows to perform a set of spectroscopic and time-domain measurement routines on the response signals, as already indicated above. Spectroscopic measurements in the frequency domain may reveal information about how the single frequency elements of the test signals are influenced by the elements that are present between two different ports of the QPU. For example, some elements may behave like a filter that influences the test signal. The time-domain provides a visual representation of how the test signal is modified while passing through the QPU between two different ports of the QPU.

[0064] The results of the measurements may then be mapped to the expected results in order to identify the QPU port that a signal port of the quantum computer control system is coupled to.

[0065] In a further embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, measuring at least one response signal may comprise measuring the response signal at least on the same at least one signal port that the test signal was provided to.

[0066] The response signal may in embodiments be measured also on the same port that the test signal is output to. This allows to perform a kind of reflection measurement on a single port.

[0067] With such a single measurement it may be possible to directly identify the type of port of the QPU the respective signal port is coupled to, while it may not be possible to directly identify the individual port. Possible types of ports may include, but are not limited to, DC bias ports, baseband ports, and RF pulse ports. Such types of ports may serve different tasks, a port may be used to drive a qubit, to provide a DC carrier signal to the qubit, to provide a high frequency carrier, like a 5 GHz carrier signal, and to output a state of the respective qubit. The signal to drive the qubit may comprise a 5 GHz carrier with about 100 ns long pulses. The DC carrier signal may comprise about 100 ns long pulses. The high frequency carrier signal may comprise a 5 GHz carrier with about 100 ns long pulses. The readout may be performed by providing a readout signal with a Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0068] December 11 , 2024

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[0070] 5 GHz carrier with about 100 ns long pulses. Of course, these values are just exemplary, and other values are also possible. Each one of the signal lines or cables may comprise specific properties, as explained above.

[0071] In embodiments, such a reflection measurement may be performed on each signal port prior to determining the port mapping based on response signals received via other signal ports than the ports the test signal was provided to.

[0072] In other embodiments, response signals may be received via other signal ports than the ports the test signal was provided to with the first measurements directly. However, in embodiments, prior to determining the full mapping, the types of QPU ports the signal ports are coupled to may be determined independently to and before determining the full mapping. The knowledge of the types of QPU ports may reduce the computational effort for determining the mapping. The information about the types of QPU ports may, therefore, be provided to the respective algorithms to support the operation of such algorithms.

[0073] In another further embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, outputting at least one test signal may comprise outputting at least two test signals on two respective signal ports of the quantum computer control system.

[0074] Single qubits of the quantum computer may be coupled, e.g., in pairs. In order to identify the coupled qubits, two test signals may be output on two respective signal ports. Outputting two test signals may be repeated any number of times with different signal ports being provided with the test signals until all coupled qubits are identified. In case that more than two qubits are coupled, three or four or more test signals may be output via respective ports.

[0075] In an embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, a test signal may be consecutively output to multiple ones of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system, and the response signal may be acquired on all signal ports of the quantum computer control system that the test signal was not output to.

[0076] In addition to the above-describe reflection measurements, as already indicated, a response signal may be measured on any signal port that the test signal was not output Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0077] December 11 , 2024

[0078] 9 / 22 to. This allows acquiring a huge amount of information from each one of the single test signals.

[0079] In a further embodiment, single measurements with a single test signal being provided to one of the signal ports, and a subset of the signal ports being used for acquiring a response signal may be performed.

[0080] In another embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, the method may further comprise performing a cable measurement on each one of the signal ports of the quantum computer control system and determining cable properties of a cable coupled to the respective signal port.

[0081] The term “cable measurement” refers to a measurement being performed while a cable is coupled to the respective signal port but prior to coupling the cable to a port of the QPU. Such a cable measurement is a kind of open-end reflection measurement performed with the cable.

[0082] The result of such a “cable measurement” will allow to determine the type of cable coupled to the respective signal port. In quantum computers different cables with different properties may be used for different connections. For example, different cables for carrying different pulse types, DC carrier frequencies, and DC biases are possible. Different types of cables may serve different purposes in such a system. For example, cables may be used for supplying a DC bias voltage or current, for qubit readout, and for qubit control. Different types of cables may, e.g., comprise different attenuation levels or may be equipped with respective attenuators.

[0083] In another further embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, the method may further comprise performing a qubit tune-up after determining the port mapping.

[0084] The term “qubit tune-up” refers to identifying or setting parameters like the frequency settings, amplitude settings, cross-talk mitigation and pulse envelops for a respective qubit.

[0085] Performing the qubit tune-up after determining the port mapping will result in a fully operational quantum computer system in a short amount of time as compared to manual set up of such a quantum computer system. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0086] December 11 , 2024

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[0088] In an embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, the method may further comprise controlling a signal generation and measurement unit of the quantum computer control system to output control signals and measure signals according to the determined port mapping.

[0089] The signal generation and measurement unit of the quantum computer control system may be a single unit or may comprise a plurality of units that each at least one of generate and measure a signal for operating a QPU. Generally, the signal generation and measurement unit is that unit of the quantum computer control system that operates the QPU during normal operation of the quantum computer system.

[0090] With the signal generation and measurement unit using the determined port mapping to generate control signals and acquire measurement signals from the QPU, operation of the quantum computer system, especially the QPU, may be initiated without any further manual tasks being performed for setting up the quantum computer system.

[0091] In another embodiment, which can be combined with all other embodiments mentioned above or below, determining the port mapping may comprise identifying the port mapping by at least one of applying the test signals to a look-up table, applying a trained machine learning algorithm to the test signals, and applying a trained artificial intelligence algorithm to the test signals, the trained artificial intelligence algorithm being trained to identify the port mapping based on the test signals.

[0092] It is possible to implement different algorithms for determining the port mapping, as already indicated above.

[0093] A look-up table may form the basis of such an algorithm. Such a look-up table may comprise pre-calculated or measured values for different properties of the response signals and map such properties to respective qubits of the QPU that the quantum computer control system is coupled to. As indicated above, such a look-up table may be pre-calculated based on the known architecture of the QPU.

[0094] A machine learning algorithm may also be used for determining the port mapping. Such a machine learning algorithm may access the look-up table. Such an algorithm may in addition or as alternative also be trained to determine the mapping. The same applies to the trained artificial intelligence algorithm. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0095] December 11 , 2024

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[0097] The different algorithms may be supplied with the number of channels, i.e., signal ports, the number of qubits, basic qubit properties, e.g., frequency ranges, and how the qubits are connected to each other. It is possible that this information is provided at training time or during operation of the respective algorithm or both.

[0098] With the results of the above-mentioned spectroscopic and time-domain measurement routines, both the signal routing, i.e., which signal port is connected to which qubit or port of the QPU, and the exact qubit properties, e.g., frequencies, and required signal amplitudes are determined.

[0099] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0100] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The disclosure is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments which are specified in the schematic figures of the drawings, in which:

[0101] Figure 1 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present disclosure;

[0102] Figure 2 shows a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method according to the present disclosure;

[0103] Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method according to the present disclosure;

[0104] Figure 4 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a quantum computer control system according to the present disclosure;

[0105] Figure 5 shows a block diagram of another embodiment of a quantum computer control system according to the present disclosure; and

[0106] Figure 6 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a quantum computer according to the present disclosure.

[0107] In the figures like reference signs denote like elements unless stated otherwise. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0108] December 11 , 2024

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[0110] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0111] In the description referring to the method-based figures the reference signs of the apparatus-based figures are maintained.

[0112] Figure 1 shows a flow diagram of a method for mapping a plurality of signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of a quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300.

[0113] The method comprises outputting S11 at least one test signal 104, 204, 304 on at least one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200,

[0114] 300, measuring S12 at least one response signal 105, 205, 305 on at least one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300, and determining S13 a port mapping for the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300 based on the at least one test signal 104, 204, 304, and the at least one response signal 105, 205, 305.

[0115] Outputting S11 at least one test signal 104, 204, 304 may comprise outputting a pulse signal with a predefined pulse shape to the respective at least one signal port 101 , 201 ,

[0116] 301 . Instead of a pulse shaped signal any other signal may be used that allows determining the required parameters.

[0117] Outputting S11 at least one test signal 104, 204, 304 may comprise outputting at least two test signals 104, 204, 304 on two respective signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300.

[0118] In addition or as alternative, a test signal 104, 204, 304 may be consecutively output to multiple ones of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300. In embodiments, the response signal 105, 205, 305 may be acquired on all signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300 that the test signal 104, 204, 304 was not output to.

[0119] When measuring S12 at least one response signal 105, 205, 305 the response signal 105, 205, 305 may be measured or acquired at least on the same at least one signal port 101 , 201 , 301 that the test signal 104, 204, 304 was provided to.

[0120] In embodiments, determining S13 the port mapping may comprise performing predetermined analysis of the at least one response signal 105, 205, 305 at least one of in the frequency domain and the time domain. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0121] December 11 , 2024

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[0123] Figure 2 shows a flow diagram of another a method for mapping a plurality of signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of a quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300. The method of figure 2 is based on the method of figure 1 . Therefore, the method comprises outputting S21 at least one test signal 104, 204, 304 on at least one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300, measuring S22 at least one response signal 105, 205, 305 on at least one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300, and determining S23 a port mapping for the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300 based on the at least one test signal 104, 204, 304, and the at least one response signal 105, 205, 305.

[0124] In addition, prior to outputting S21 the at least one test signal 104, 204, 304, a cable measurement is performed S24 on each one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300 and cable properties of the cable 312 coupled to the respective signal port 101 , 201 , 301 are determined

[0125] This allows providing the types of cables 312 or at least the properties of the cables 312 to any following algorithm that will identify the mapping.

[0126] Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of another a method for mapping a plurality of signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of a quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300. The method of figure 3 is based on the method of figure 1 . Therefore, the method comprises outputting S31 at least one test signal 104, 204, 304 on at least one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300, measuring S32 at least one response signal 105, 205, 305 on at least one of the signal ports 101 , 201 , 301 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300, and determining S33 a port mapping for the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300 based on the at least one test signal 104, 204, 304, and the at least one response signal 105, 205, 305.

[0127] In addition, the method of figure 3 comprises performing S35 a qubit tune-up after determining the port mapping. After the qubit tune-up, a signal generation and measurement unit 206, 306 of the quantum computer control system 100, 200, 300 is controlled S36 to output control signals and measure signals according to the determined port mapping in order to operate a quantum processing unit.

[0128] Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a quantum computer control system 100. The quantum computer control system 100 comprises a plurality of signal ports 101 , and a Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0129] December 11 , 2024

[0130] 14 / 22 control unit 102 that executes computer readable instructions 103 that cause the control unit 102 to perform a method according to any one of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The descriptions provided herein for any one of the embodiments of the quantum computer control system apply mutatis mutandis to the quantum computer control system 100.

[0131] As indicated, thousands of signal ports 101 are possible. Therefore, only a block designated as signal ports 101 is shown.

[0132] The quantum computer control system 100 will output respective test signals 104 via the signal ports 101 , and will receive respective response signals 105 via the signal ports that will allow the algorithm executed by the control unit 102 to determine the mapping for the signal ports 101.

[0133] Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a quantum computer control system 200. The quantum computer control system 200 comprises a plurality of signal ports 201 , and a control unit 202 that executes computer readable instructions 203 that cause the control unit 202 to perform a method according to any one of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The descriptions provided herein for any one of the embodiments of the quantum computer control system apply mutatis mutandis to the quantum computer control system 200.

[0134] The quantum computer control system 200 further comprises a signal generation and measurement unit 206 that is arranged between the control unit 202, and the signal ports 201 .

[0135] The signal generation and measurement unit 206 may comprise any type of units or elements that are required for generating the test signals 204, and for acquiring or measuring the response signals 205. Such elements may comprise digital control elements, like processors, controllers, FPGAs, CPLDs, and analog elements, like amplifiers, attenuators, filters, as well as analog-to-digital converters or digital-to-analog converters.

[0136] Figure 6 shows a block diagram of a quantum computer 310. The quantum computer 310 comprises a quantum computer control system 300 and a quantum processing unit 311 . The quantum computer control system 300 is based on the quantum computer control system 100. Therefore, the quantum computer control system 300 comprises a Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0137] December 11 , 2024

[0138] 15 / 22 plurality of signal ports 301 , and a control unit 302 that executes computer readable instructions 303 that cause the control unit 302 to perform a method according to any one of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The descriptions provided herein for any one of the embodiments of the quantum computer control system apply mutatis mutandis to the quantum computer control system 300.

[0139] The quantum processing unit 311 may be any type of quantum processing unit 311 with a plurality of qubits.

[0140] In the exemplary embodiment, straight lines are shown that couple the signal ports 301 to the quantum processing unit 311 . The straight lines are chosen to visualize that a direct 1 -to-1 coupling may be performed without taking into account the functions of the single ports of the quantum processing unit 311 .

[0141] The actual mapping is depicted as a plurality of lines that cross each other from the left side to the right side of the signal ports 301 , and each end at one of the straight lines.

[0142] In reality, the mapping may be implemented as a hardware-based switching matrix, or as a software-based functionality that controls the signal ports 301 or the signal generation and measurement unit 306 to output or acquire respective signals during operation of the quantum computer 310. A combination of a switching matrix and a software-based control may also be used. For example, banks of signal output elements and banks of signal input elements may be provided in the signal generation and measurement unit 306. A switching matrix may be coupled to each one of the banks. In such embodiments, a single switching matrix only needs to couple to either input or output elements, this simplifying the design of the switching matrices.

[0143] The processes, methods, or algorithms disclosed herein can be deliverable to / implemented by a processing device, controller, or computer, which can include any existing programmable electronic control unit or dedicated electronic control unit. Similarly, the processes, methods, or algorithms can be stored as data and instructions executable by a controller or computer in many forms including, but not limited to, information permanently stored on non-writable storage media such as ROM devices and information alterably stored on writeable storage media such as floppy disks, magnetic tapes, CDs, RAM devices, and other magnetic and optical media. The processes, methods, or algorithms can also be implemented in a software executable Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0144] December 11 , 2024

[0145] 16 / 22 object. Alternatively, the processes, methods, or algorithms can be embodied in whole or in part using suitable hardware components, such as Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), state machines, controllers or other hardware components or devices, or a combination of hardware, software and firmware components.

[0146] While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms encompassed by the claims. The words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. As previously described, the features of various embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments of the invention that may not be explicitly described or illustrated. While various embodiments could have been described as providing advantages or being preferred over other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more desired characteristics, those of ordinary skill in the art recognize that one or more features or characteristics can be compromised to achieve desired overall system attributes, which depend on the specific application and implementation. These attributes can include, but are not limited to cost, strength, durability, life cycle cost, marketability, appearance, packaging, size, serviceability, weight, manufacturability, ease of assembly, etc. As such, to the extent any embodiments are described as less desirable than other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more characteristics, these embodiments are not outside the scope of the disclosure and can be desirable for particular applications.

[0147] With regard to the processes, systems, methods, heuristics, etc. described herein, it should be understood that, although the steps of such processes, etc. have been described as occurring according to a certain ordered sequence, such processes could be practiced with the described steps performed in an order other than the order described herein. It further should be understood that certain steps could be performed simultaneously, that other steps could be added, or that certain steps described herein could be omitted. In other words, the descriptions of processes herein are provided for the purpose of illustrating certain embodiments, and should in no way be construed so as to limit the claims. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0148] December 11 , 2024

[0149] 17 / 22

[0150] Accordingly, it is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments and applications other than the examples provided would be apparent upon reading the above description. The scope should be determined, not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is anticipated and intended that future developments will occur in the technologies discussed herein, and that the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. In sum, it should be understood that the application is capable of modification and variation.

[0151] All terms used in the claims are intended to be given their broadest reasonable constructions and their ordinary meanings as understood by those knowledgeable in the technologies described herein unless an explicit indication to the contrary in made herein. In particular, use of the singular articles such as “a,” “the,” “said,” etc. should be read to recite one or more of the indicated elements unless a claim recites an explicit limitation to the contrary.

[0152] The abstract of the disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0153] While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the invention. Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCT

[0154] December 11 , 2024

[0155] 18 / 22

[0156] LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0157] S11 - S13, S21 - S24, S31 - S36 method steps

[0158] 100, 200, 300 quantum computer control system 101 , 201 , 301 signal ports

[0159] 102, 202, 302 control unit

[0160] 103, 203, 303 computer readable instructions

[0161] 104, 204, 304 test signal

[0162] 105, 205, 305 response signal

[0163] 206, 306 signal generation and measurement unit

[0164] 310 quantum computer

[0165] 311 quantum processing unit 312 cables

Claims

Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCTDecember 11 , 202419 / 22CLAIMS1 . Computer implemented method for mapping signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ) in a quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) comprising a plurality of signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ), the method comprising: outputting (S11 , S21 , S31) at least one test signal (104, 204, 304) on at least one of the signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ) of the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300); measuring (S12, S22, S32) at least one response signal (105, 205, 305) on at least one of the signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ) of the quantum computer control system (100, 200,300); and determining (S31 , S32, S33) a port mapping for the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) based on the at least one test signal (104, 204, 304), and the at least one response signal (105, 205, 305).

2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein determining (S31 , S32, S33) the port mapping comprises performing predetermined analysis of the at least one response signal (105, 205, 305) at least one of in the frequency domain and the time domain.

3. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein outputting (S11 ,521 , S31 ) at least one test signal (104, 204, 304) comprises outputting a pulse signal with a predefined pulse shape to the respective at least one signal port (101 , 201 , 301 ).

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein measuring (S12,522, S32) at least one response signal (105, 205, 305) comprises measuring the response signal (105, 205, 305) at least on the same at least one signal port (101 , 201 ,301 ) that the test signal (104, 204, 304) was provided to.

5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein outputting (S11 , S21 , S31 ) at least one test signal (104, 204, 304) comprises outputting at least two test signals (104, 204, 304) on two respective signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ) of the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300).

6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a test signal (104, 204, 304) is consecutively output to multiple ones of the signal ports (101 , 201 ,Kehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCTDecember 11 , 202420 / 22 wherein the response signal (105, 205, 305) is acquired on all signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ) of the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) that the test signal (104, 204, 304) was not output to.

7. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising performing (S24) a cable measurement on each one of the signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ) of the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) and determining cable properties of a cable (312) coupled to the respective signal port (101 , 201 , 301 ).

8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising performing (S35) a qubit tune-up after determining the port mapping.

9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising controlling (S36) a signal generation and measurement unit (206, 306) of the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) to output control signals and measure signals according to the determined port mapping.

10. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein determining the port mapping comprises identifying the port mapping by at least one of: applying the test signals (104, 204, 304) to a look-up table; applying a trained machine learning algorithm to the test signals (104, 204, 304); applying a trained artificial intelligence algorithm to the test signals (104, 204, 304), the trained artificial intelligence algorithm being trained to identify the port mapping based on the test signals (104, 204, 304).11 . Quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) comprising: a plurality of signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ); and a control unit (102, 202, 302), configured to execute computer readable instructions (103, 203, 303) that cause the control unit (102, 202, 302) to perform a method according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. Quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) according to claim 11 , further comprising a signal generation and measurement unit (206, 306) arranged between the control unit (102, 202, 302) and the plurality of signal ports (101 , 201 , 301 ), the signal generation and measurement unit (206, 306) being configured to output the atKehl, Ascherl, Liebhoff & Ettmayr Patentanwalte 7012-104-PCTDecember 11 , 202421 / 22 least one test signal (104, 204, 304) and acquire the at least one response signal (105, 205, 305).

13. Quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) according to claim 12, wherein the signal generation and measurement unit (206, 306) is further configured to output and acquire operational control signal for operating a quantum processing unit(311 ).

14. Quantum computer (310) comprising: a quantum processing unit (311 ) that comprises a plurality of ports; and a quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300) according to any one of claims 11 to 13; wherein each one of the ports of the quantum processing unit (311 ) is coupled to one of the ports of the quantum computer control system (100, 200, 300).

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