Quantum Computing : A New Frontier for Science and Society

Abstract

This short report explores the (non exhaustive) current state of quantum technologies, their potential applications, and the challenges that must be addressed to harness their full potential. In particular we will focus on the quantum computer architecture and its ecosystem. Such architecture represents a complex, multi-layered system that integrates quantum and classical components to enable the execution of quantum algorithms. This manuscript is then organized as follows : first we will introduce the quantum processing unit, the lowest layer of a quantum computer. Then we will progress from the lowest to the higher layer of the system architectures : measurement, circuit control, error correction and mitigation system, the quantum compiler and finally the software stack, with particular emphasis on the interactions between these components