Large scale simulations of photonic quantum computers
Current quantum computers are in the “NISQ”, or Noisy-Intermediate-Scale-Quantum regime. The true potential of quantum computing will only be realized when noise levels are reduced or controlled, and large scale is achieved. Xanadu’s approach is to use photonic technology as the building blocks of their machines. This project addresses the question: How do we build a useful quantum computer based on imperfect photonics components? There are 2 specific aspects of this general question: A – In which conditions does a photonic quantum computer reach quantum advantage (demonstrating large speedups compared to today’s most powerful conventional computers)? B – What are the resources required to build a scalable fault-tolerant photonic quantum computer? This project will provide the team with a much more detailed understanding of the requirements and tradeoffs involved in the future, much larger-scale generations of quantum photonic hardware that must be built in order to fully realize the theoretical potential of quantum computing.By mapping out a pathway to demonstrating quantum advantage, and large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computing, this project will guide Xanadu’s ongoing efforts to build more powerful quantum computers which can deliver commercial benefits to customers and ensure economic impact.