Dell: Quantum Computing Platform

2021: Quantum Computing Platform Announcement

At the end of September 2021, Dell engineers announced a platform for creating quantum computing algorithms. The solution includes the R740xd PowerEdge server with Intel processors and IBM Qiskit Runtime software for executing quantum algorithms.

Since the quantum equipment necessary for large-scale launch of quantum algorithms has not yet been created, companies use simulators for this task. Simulators and emulators allow you to run quantum algorithms on classical computing equipment. Thus, researchers can use standard servers or cloud infrastructure to test their code and find areas for improvement.

Dell Introduces Quantum Computing Platform

Physicists are experimenting with algorithms that use quantum circuits to model microscopic phenomena. Machine learning experts are exploring the potential of technology to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) learning. New algorithms are also being developed for the use of quantum computing in chemistry, supply chain optimization and other fields. The hybrid emulation platform developed by Dell is designed to simplify this task and, according to one of the company's representatives, the platform provides a convenient way to run quantum algorithms on classical computing equipment.

The PowerEdge R740xd server, on which the platform is based, is equipped with two central processors from the 2nd generation Intel Xeon Scalable chip family. The standard R740xd PowerEdge server comes with 24 high-speed NVMe flash drives for storage, and allows companies to store some information on Intel Optane DC Persistent Memory. An important part is that Dell describes the offering as a hybrid emulation platform rather than a simulator. The difference between these two terms is related to how quantum computers are built. The Dell-based emulator provides a more realistic development environment that recreates both quantum and classical computing elements of a quantum machine.

Dell offers several benefits for users. The company claims that its hybrid emulation platform allows users to run quantum code sequences or circuits, as researchers call them, with fewer delays than using other methods. The company also positions the platform as an attractive alternative to existing cloud-based quantum modeling offerings available to companies.^[1]

Notes