Quantum computers, which harness the principles of quantum mechanics to unlock immense computational power, are poised to produce a revolution in computing.
However, the popular press often suggests that once quantum computers reach a level of performance that surpasses classical computers and supercomputers – called quantum advantage – then the high performance computing era is over.
In this scenario, once quantum advantage is reached, classical and supercomputers will disappear. High performance computing centers will be obsolete. And supercomputer expertise will be irrelevant.
Most experts, however, foresee a different computing era unfolding in the future. Rather than quantum replacing HPC, they see a hybrid quantum-HPC paradigm emerging – and persisting for years to come.
In fact, this hybrid-quantum paradigm is taking shape right now, according to The Quantum Insider’s intelligence platform, which is tracking the global growth of the quantum industry. Hybrid quantum projects, such as the Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s classical-quantum resource program and QMware and QuiX Quantum’s collaboration to build a hybrid center in the Netherlands, are both initial glimpse into fully integrated, hybrid quantum-classical platforms.
“Our collaboration marks a significant milestone for the quantum computing industry. The hybrid quantum computing data center located in Enschede is a major step in the evolution of computing, as it seamlessly integrates classical and quantum hardware at the deepest possible layer. This development is strategically significant, as it unlocks the full potential of quantum computing applications in the future.” said Markus Pflitsch, CEO and co-founder of QMware.
The key is matching quantum devices with computational problems that these devices are best at solving and matching supercomputers with challenges they are suited for, according to the experts.
What Is Quantum Computing?
According to The Quantum Insider’s introduction to quantum computing, quantum computers harness quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement to solve certain complex problems that are more likely to bog down traditional classical computers. Quantum devices, for example, show remarkable potential for tackling computationally-intensive tasks such as cryptography, optimization, material design and drug discovery. However, quantum computers are easily outmatched in other tasks, including very simple computational ones.
Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing Paradigm
In the hybrid quantum-classical computing approach, quantum computers are used in conjunction with classical supercomputers to tackle problems more efficiently. For example, quantum computers could handle the computationally intensive parts of a problem, while classical computers manage the preprocessing, post-processing and error correction tasks. This collaboration allows researchers to leverage the strengths of both quantum and classical computing to overcome the limitations of each system.
Current HPC Centers Are Ideally Positioned For The Hybrid Quantum Era
Rather than quantum replacing HPC, the argument could be made that quantum will rely on HPC. Renowned for their ability to handle vast amounts of data and perform complex calculations, HPC centers are uniquely positioned to facilitate the integration of quantum computers. By leveraging their existing infrastructure, expertise and resources, HPC centers can serve as hubs for quantum computing research and development. These centers can provide the necessary support and collaborative environments for scientists, engineers, and industry experts to work together and explore the intersection of classical and quantum computing.
Challenges and Solutions
This transition is not without significant challenges.
First, quantum computers are extremely sensitive to environmental disturbances and require stringent conditions to operate optimally. HPC centers are used to stringent operational environments, but they now must contend with even more complexity and vulnerabilities. HPC engineers must design specialized infrastructure and cooling systems to create stable environments for quantum computers. Quantum algorithms and programming languages are still evolving, requiring new training for workers. Experts also expect new quantum algorithms and programming languages will necessitate the development of novel tools and frameworks that seamlessly integrate quantum computing into the existing HPC workflow.
Collaborative Research and Education
To foster the integration of quantum computers and HPC centers, collaboration between academia, industry and government entities is crucial. Establishing research partnerships and educational programs will enable the sharing of knowledge, resources, and expertise. Universities and research institutions can play a pivotal role in training the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers, ensuring a skilled workforce capable of harnessing the full potential of quantum computing.
Unlocking Computing’s Vast Potential
The integration of quantum computers with high-performance computing centers represents a remarkable milestone in the world of computing. By combining the strengths of quantum and classical computing, researchers and engineers can unlock unprecedented computational power and revolutionize our ability to solve complex problems.
Although challenges lie ahead, the collaborative efforts of academia, industry, and government are poised to shape a future where quantum computers seamlessly coexist with high-performance computing centers, opening up a new era of scientific discovery and technological advancements.
