A software framework for automated QPU tune-up

As the size and complexity of superconducting quantum processing units (QPUs) continues to scale up rapidly, the ability to tune them to the optimal operating point and maintain high-fidelity operations becomes increasingly important. The control software for the quantum hardware is critical in shortening the development time for tune-up procedures, a necessary step to fully exploit the next generation of QPUs. The physics of the QPU needs to be easily and intuitively represented within the software language and, at the same time, leverage the capabilities of the control hardware to complete tune-up procedures with minimal overhead, thereby maximizing the available computing time.

Here we show how LabOne Q, our open-source control software framework, addresses these challenges by providing a physics-focused user interface that efficiently compiles user-defined pulse sequences into the instruction level of a scalable quantum control system. The framework enables automated and semi-automated tune-up procedures that include data analysis, data storage, and qubit parameter updating, paving the way for future large-scale automated calibration routines.