Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize industries by solving problems beyond the reach of classical computers. However, as quantum chips scale up, slow and resource-intensive testing and characterization required for operation as well as development limits progress. The PAC-QC project addresses this bottleneck by advancing automation and introducing parallelized characterization methods, ensuring that quantum hardware development remains efficient and scalable.

Lifting the characterization bottleneck

The rapid growth of quantum computing requires scalable solutions for testing quantum processors. Current approaches are often effective for small test chips but struggle to keep pace as processors expand to hundreds or thousands of qubits. The increasing complexity of calibration and diagnostics leads to delays in qualifying large-scale quantum processors. The PAC-QC project tackles this challenge by developing parallelized characterization methods, enabling multiple qubits to be tested simultaneously. By improving efficiency and reducing overall test time, this initiative helps remove a critical roadblock in building useful quantum computers.

Enhancing Automation and Parallelizing Testing

To accelerate quantum processor development, the PAC-QC project focuses on both enhancing automation and parallelizing testing. While automation has already streamlined many aspects of quantum chip characterization, further improvements can optimize efficiency and scalability. Many diagnostic routines remain sequential, limiting how quickly new chips can be qualified. By refining calibration strategies and parallelizing testing across multiple qubits, this project improves efficiency while addressing key technical challenges such as crosstalk, unwanted entanglement, and heating effects. These advancements ensure that testing methods keep pace as quantum processors grow in complexity.

Strengthening Europe’s Quantum Leadership

Europe has established itself as a leader in quantum technology, and The Netherlands play a crucial role in this emerging field. The PAC-QC project, a collaboration between Orange Quantum Systems and TU Delft’s DiCarlo group reinforces this position by advancing high-throughput quantum chip testing. By reducing overall test time and increasing scalability, the project enhances the commercial viability of quantum computing and strengthens the Netherlands’ role in the international quantum supply chain. As the demand for scalable quantum technology grows, PAC-QC contributes to building a competitive, future-proof ecosystem for quantum innovation.