Quantum Computing: Sci-Fi Technology Requires Real-World Engineering

Quantum Computing: Sci-Fi Technology Requires Real-World Engineering

Author: All About Circuits February 13, 2024 Duration: 55:52

A decade after demonstrating the first entanglement of semiconducting spin quantum bits, or qubits, Oliver Dial and IBM Quantum are developing the ICs, cryogenic systems, error mitigation techniques, and software tools that will identify solutions to problems beyond the scope of classical computers. Recently, the IBM Quantum team announced the Heron 133-qubit and Condor 1,121-qubit quantum processors, and Dial joins us to talk about a subject that he loves.

The highlights of this conversation between Dial and our Moore's Lobby host, Daniel Bogdanoff, include:

  • A comparison of quantum and classic Turing computing systems.
  • Temperatures down to 0.1 kelvin (brrr!) to noise temperatures of 30,000 kelvin (hotter than the sun, but not really).
  • An audio symphony of quantum circuits running computations from around the world.
  • Qubits are probably much bigger than you would expect.
  • Why packaging engineers are the unsung heroes of the semiconductor and quantum industries.
  • Semiconductor engineers telling quantum engineers, "you guys are doing these all wrong."
  • The technology advance in the newer Heron processor that Dial is most excited about.

In the world of electronics, the real story is often found in the people who design, innovate, and push the boundaries of what's possible. Moore's Lobby: Where engineers talk all about circuits is a monthly podcast that goes beyond datasheets and schematics to explore the human element driving technological progress. Host Daniel Bogdanoff sits down with a diverse range of guests-from hands-on engineers and visionary technologists to the executives steering major organizations-for conversations that are as much about personal journey as technical achievement. Each episode delves into the practical engineering and the broader industry trends shaping our future, but always through the lens of the individual's experience. You'll hear firsthand accounts of breakthrough moments, the challenges of bringing complex ideas to life, and the philosophies that guide leaders in this demanding field. This podcast from All About Circuits connects a global community of professionals who share a deep curiosity for how things work and who makes them work. It’s a space for nuanced discussion that aims to inform, inspire, and provide genuine insight into the circuit-driven world we inhabit. The dialogue here is for those who appreciate the substance behind the innovation, offering a blend of technical depth and narrative that you can naturally integrate into your own perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Moore's Lobby: Where engineers talk all about circuits
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