- IQM secures contract to install Czech Republic’s first quantum computer at IT4Innovations, featuring 24-qubit Star Architecture.
- System advances quantum error correction, serving diverse sectors, part of nine-nation LUMI-Q consortium.
OUR TAKE
The IQM contract signifies a pivotal advancement for quantum computing in Europe, placing the Czech Republic at the vanguard of quantum tech. This development is crucial for accelerating research and industrial applications, ensuring European competitiveness and sovereignty in a field dominated by technological giants. It marks a significant step towards practical quantum error correction and real-world problem-solving capabilities.
–Vicky Wu, BTW reporter
What happened
IQM Quantum Computers has secured a landmark contract to install the Czech Republic’s inaugural quantum computer at the IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Centre in Ostrava. The agreement falls under the auspices of the European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) programme, marking the first deployment of a quantum computer within an HPC centre utilising IQM’s proprietary Star Architecture. This unique design features 24 qubits interconnected via a central resonator, promising enhanced efficiency and compatibility with IQM’s advanced quantum error correction techniques and complex algorithms.
IQM Co-CEO Mikko Välimäki expressed excitement over this milestone, noting the significance for both IQM and the wider Central European quantum community. The system represents IQM’s next-generation QPU technology, designed to expedite progress towards practical quantum error correction. Branislav Jansík, Supercomputing Services Director at IT4Innovations, highlighted the architectural advantages of the star topology, which optimises qubit connections, reduces error rates, and enhances operational reliability. The quantum computer, part of the LUMI-Q consortium involving nine nations, will serve diverse end-users including scientists, industries, and the public sector.
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Why it’s important
This development underscores a critical advance in the field of quantum computing within Europe, positioning the Czech Republic at the forefront of quantum technology innovation. The installation of the quantum computer at IT4Innovations signifies a substantial stride towards realising the potential of quantum computing in solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers. The EuroHPC JU’s $7.8 billion (€7 billion) budget allocation for 2021-2027 underscores the importance of establishing quantum computing capabilities across European HPC centres, catering to the burgeoning demand from industry and research institutions. IQM’s contribution to this initiative ensures Europe’s technological sovereignty in a strategically vital area, fostering the development of groundbreaking industrial and scientific applications.
Co-CEO Dr. Jan Goetz stressed IQM’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge quantum solutions, highlighting the company’s role in advancing error correction methods and paving the way for future advancements in quantum computing. This project epitomises Europe’s commitment to leading in quantum technologies, fostering innovation and maintaining a competitive edge globally.
