IBM proposes unified architecture for hybrid quantum-classical computing

Quantum computers and classical HPC are traditionally “disparate systems [that] operate in isolation,” IBM researchers explain in a new paper. This can be “cumbersome,” because users have to manually orchestrate workflows, coordinate scheduling, and transfer data between systems, thus hindering productivity and “severely” limiting algorithmic exploration.

But a hybrid approach can simplify the process of applying quantum computing to problems in areas like chemistry, materials science, and optimization, and “solve problems that were previously out of reach,” IBM says.

The researchers describe quantum-centric supercomputing (QCSC) as evolving through three distinct phases: quantum systems as specialized compute offload engines within HPC environments; quantum and classic HPC systems coupled through advanced middleware; and fully co-designed HPC and quantum systems for hybrid workflows.

The first phase focuses on establishing “foundational integration…