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Qiskit Backend Specifications for OpenQASM and OpenPulse Experiments (1809.03452v1)

Published 10 Sep 2018 in quant-ph and cs.ET

Abstract: As interest in quantum computing grows, there is a pressing need for standardized API's so that algorithm designers, circuit designers, and physicists can be provided a common reference frame for designing, executing, and optimizing experiments. There is also a need for a language specification that goes beyond gates and allows users to specify the time dynamics of a quantum experiment and recover the time dynamics of the output. In this document we provide a specification for a common interface to backends (simulators and experiments) and a standarized data structure (Qobj --- quantum object) for sending experiments to those backends via Qiskit. We also introduce OpenPulse, a language for specifying pulse level control (i.e. control of the continuous time dynamics) of a general quantum device independent of the specific hardware implementation.

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Summary

Overview of the Qiskit Backend Specifications for OpenQASM and OpenPulse Experiments

The document primarily addresses the necessity for standardized APIs and data structures in quantum computing, particularly focusing on the Qiskit framework. As quantum computing emerges from the realms of theoretical exploration to practical application, the efficient integration between different user roles—algorithm designers, circuit designers, and quantum physicists—requires a cohesive interface. Qiskit serves as this interface, enabling users to create, compile, and execute quantum programs either on simulators or actual quantum processors.

The document delineates the specifications for a comprehensive interface with backends and a standardized data structure, namely Qobj (Quantum Object), which facilitates the transmission of experimental data to backends via Qiskit. Furthermore, OpenPulse is introduced as a language allowing users to engage with pulse-level control, thus enabling quantum experimentation beyond gate-level abstractions.

Qiskit Backend Specifications

The specifications address three user levels within Qiskit: the algorithm designer, circuit designer, and quantum physicist. Each user type utilizes Qiskit for varying purposes, from developing new algorithms to optimizing quantum circuits and designing precise quantum gates. The document outlines how these users can interact with quantum devices and simulators, collectively referred to as Backends, through Qobj, which encapsulates quantum experiments.

Key Components and Structures

  • Qobj: A self-contained data structure in JSON format representing a complete quantum experiment. It allows for experiments to be executed in either OpenQASM or OpenPulse languages.
  • OpenQASM and OpenPulse: OpenQASM concerns gate-level operations whereas OpenPulse allows for pulse-level control, enabling experiments like dynamical decoupling and optimal control not feasible with just gate-level commands.
  • Backend Configuration and Defaults: Provides detailed configurations that define the hardware capabilities and default settings, essential for defining the environment in which quantum experiments are conducted.
  • API Specifications: Specify a clear framework within Qiskit, where function calls and data structures underpin interfacing with quantum devices. This includes getting configuration details, running experiments, and retrieving results.

Notable Features and Implications

  1. OpenPulse Language: By specifying the time dynamics of operations, OpenPulse grants users fine-grained control over pulse sequences on quantum hardware, allowing more sophisticated and potentially high-fidelity experiments.
  2. Standardized Data Structures: The Qobj establishes a standardized format, reducing compatibility issues across different quantum devices and simplifying the user’s interaction with diverse backends.
  3. Measurement Levels: OpenPulse introduces a differentiated approach to handling measurement data through various levels (0, 1, and 2), where each level denotes a distinct processing depth from raw data to qubit state.
  4. Practical Insights in Quantum Operations: The specifications explore hardware-agnostic interfaces, enabling users across different platforms to engage with quantum devices seamlessly, paving the way for broader adoption and development of quantum technologies.

Future Directions in Quantum Computing

The document's focus on a unified interface via Qiskit underscores the importance of robust and scalable software in the evolution of quantum computing. Future advancements could leverage these standardized specifications to enhance interoperability across new quantum devices and simulators. Additionally, OpenPulse's ability to control continuous-time dynamics suggests forthcoming developments in error correction and noise mitigation through tailored pulse sequences.

Ultimately, as quantum technologies advance, the interfaces and frameworks detailed within this document will not only promote efficient experimentation across varying quantum systems but also push the boundaries of what is achievable in quantum computation and control.

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