QNetLab from Cisco. A fireside chat with Stephen DiAdamo.

01/29/24 • 33 min

Steve & I chat about the importance of simulation in the absence of quantum network hardware. We discuss Cisco's QNetLab, a platform designed to unite quantum experts and software developers. Our conversation covers the current challenges, future prospects, and the need for community collaboration in quantum network simulation.

(0:00:12) - Quantum Network Simulation
- The critical role of simulation in quantum network development.
- The lack of quantum hardware components.
- The need for open-source libraries to foster collaboration.

(0:13:15) - Developing Quantum Network Simulation Platform
- Efforts in creating standardized entanglement distribution protocols.
- The introduction of QNetLab to unify the quantum network community.
- QNetLab’s intuitive interface designed for users with different skill levels.

(0:23:47) - Future Vision for Quantum Networking
- Connecting simulation code to network parameters for different simulation engines.
- QNetLab’s potential in adapting to new technologies like photonic quantum computing.
- The significance of community engagement and open-source contributions.

(0:28:53) - Open-Sourcing the QNetLab Platform
- QNetLab's foundational phase and plans for future collaboration.
- The importance of building a solid base before seeking external contributions.
- The potential growth of a community around quantum networking simulation.

Previous Episode

Quantum Communications Hub, UK. An interview with Tim Spiller.

Join us with Tim Spiller, currently Professor of Quantum Information Technologies at the University of York and Director of the UK Quantum Communications Hub. Tim walks us through his career journey, and provides an insider's look into the UK's strategic approach to quantum technology, revealing how a decade of significant government investment has propelled the field forward. With a career straddling both academia and industry, Tim offers a unique perspective on the evolution from theoretical physics to groundbreaking quantum computing algorithms.

In this discussion, we uncover the latest on the UK's national quantum program and its expansion, detailing the strategic refresh that includes a budget boost and the creation of new hubs to foster technological advancements planned for the end of 2024. Hear about the global quantum research landscape where the UK, despite not having the financial heft of the US or China, is seen as a trailblazer in coordinating academic and industrial synergies. We also discuss the pivotal role that the quantum communication hubs have played in nurturing the growth of startups and driving innovations in quantum key distribution and random number generation.

Tune in as we explore the exciting realm of quantum technology applications, from the commercial viability of quantum key distribution in handheld devices to the Controlled SWAP test for quantum entanglement, shedding light on a potential future of quantum networking. Tim shares his thoughts on the anticipated developments in the UK's quantum program, the importance of quantum memory for large-scale quantum computing, and the critical need for global standardisation in the field. As Tim prepares to pass the baton of leadership, he reflects on the significance of continuous learning and training to support the burgeoning quantum industry and the role of outreach in promoting these cutting-edge technologies.

(00:11) - UK's Quantum Technology Strategy and Achievements

(09:29) - UK National Quantum Program Expansion

(15:42) - Quantum Communications and Startup Evolution

(32:52) - Quantum Communications

(42:05) - Potential Applications of Quantum Technology

(51:34) - Quantum Computing and Entanglement Distribution

(01:07:08) - Quantum Computing and Memory Development

(01:12:57) - Transitioning Leadership in the Quantum Communications Hub

Next Episode

Quantum Networking for Quantum Computing. An interview with Claire Le Gall.

Claire Le Gall from Nu Quantum joins us this week to discuss quantum networking. She delves into her academic history and Nu Quantum's mission in enhancing quantum computer scalability. The episode covers collaborations with industry leaders, academic institutions, Nu Quantum's products, advancing optical hardware, some background on quantum dots, and the company's plans moving forward.

**Chapter 1: Quantum Networking for Scalable Quantum Computers (0:00:12 - 14:00)**
- Claire Le Gall's background in experimental physics and work on qubit control and entanglement.
- Nu Quantum's focus on quantum networking to scale quantum computers.
- Collaboration with Infection and Intercom on photon collection and optical hardware.

**Chapter 2: Advantages and Challenges of Quantum Networking (0:14:17 - 22:17)**
- The modular construction of quantum computers and the reduction of quantum error correction overhead.
- The significance of qubit quality and the balance between fidelity and entanglement distillation.
- Defining quantum networking in the context of various applications.

**Chapter 3: Quantum Computing With Data Center Networking (0:22:18 - 35:29)**
- The necessity of proximity for quantum processing units within data centers.
- Role of quantum networking units and hardware in photon transfer between nodes.
- The importance of heralding stations and preparation time in networking efficiency.

**Chapter 4: Challenges and Advances in Quantum Networking (0:35:30 - 50:27)**
- Controlling qubits and their interaction with the environment.
- Comparative analysis of neutral atom qubits and solid-state systems.
- Prospects of semiconductor quantum dots in generating indistinguishable photons for entanglement.

The Quantum Divide - QNetLab from Cisco. A fireside chat with Stephen DiAdamo.

Transcript

Dan00:00:11.659

Greetings and welcome back to Quantum Divide on this episode. Uh, It's going to be a little bit different today. Steve and I have decided to Basically have a fireside chat. Imagine me sat here in my big leather chair, sipping on a glass of single malt whiskey or whatever you uh, other drinks are available. But we're gonna have a, we're gonna have a chat here about quantum network simulation.

Dan00:00:37.084

Steve, hello