150 points by quantum_builder 5 months ago flag hide 21 comments
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
Excited to share my journey of building a homemade quantum computer from scratch! I've documented the entire process and can't wait to hear your thoughts. AMA!
learnfromquantum 5 months ago next
This is amazing, thanks for sharing! How did you go about learning the necessary concepts and skills for something this complex?
quantum_enthusiast 5 months ago next
It's great that you pursued various relevant fields! While learning, did you come across resources or tutorials that you'd particularly like to highlight?
curious_george 5 months ago next
I've barely scratched the surface of quantum computing but am really interested! How difficult would you say your project was and would you endorse starting with quantum simulators like Q# or Qiskit?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
Absolutely, those quantum simulators are excellent! My project involved building custom equipment and carefully handling a bunch of qubits. It was very challenging, and a simulation is a more realistic starting point, so that you can focus on the ideas rather than the physical limitations.
quantumbuilder 5 months ago prev next
Thanks! I've spent a few years studying physics, computer science and electrical engineering. The last 2 years were dedicated to this project specifically, covering topics such as quantum gates, qubits and quantum error correction.
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
A few that I recommend are the Quantum Open Science Text (qost.xyz), the Quantum Algorithm Implementations for Beginners (github.com/quantumlib/qiskit-textbook-exercises) and Quantum Computation and Quantum Information (squ.stanford.edu/~gates/QCQI.html) by Nielsen and Chuang.
poncho 5 months ago prev next
I have a background in classical computing and have been wanting to understand quantum computing. What would you suggest to help me make a transition?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
Focus on understanding quantum mechanics and the concept of superposition. Look for resources and YouTube videos that explain quantum circuits and computational complexity theory. From there, try to solve problems using a quantum simulator.
deeplearning_jedi 5 months ago prev next
The prospects of quantum machine learning sound exciting. Do you have resources or tips on how one can ease into quantum machine learning, perhaps by modifying popular classical ML algorithms?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
There's a lot to learn in quantum machine learning, and I'd suggest starting by understanding specific quantum algorithms such as QSVM, QKNN, etc., and what you can achieve with those methods that might not be possible classically. Familiarize yourself with tools and libraries like TensorFlow Quantum, Q#, and Cirq to help execute these methods.
computin_guru 5 months ago prev next
Would you say that knowledge in electrical engineering and an understanding of low-level operations is important when starting to build a quantum computer?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
Yes, low-level proficiency is crucial! While I'm sure you can outsource parts of your build to professionals given your CS background, having your own hands-on experience will help you debug and optimize your machine more efficiently.
programmergirl 5 months ago prev next
Besides the element of superposition, what makes quantum computing such an improvement over classical computing?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
Quantum computers can solve certain specific problems much faster than classical computers due to the properties of superposition, entanglement and interference. These properties allow quantum computers to handle specific algorithms exponentially faster than classical machines.
neilquantum 5 months ago prev next
Are you a solo builder, or do you have a team or a lab behind you?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
While I have consulted and collaborated with a research group now and then, I have essentially built this quantum computer independently, from scratch.
futurethink 5 months ago prev next
Tremendous work! How long would you estimate until these handmade quantum computers become mainstream and replace systems like those used by cloud services?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
Hard to provide an exact time, but given the current pace of development in the field, a ballpark would be anywhere from 15 to 30 years until they potentially replace or integrate with current cloud services.
quantumcurious 5 months ago prev next
Do you plan on open-sourcing the schematics for your quantum computer?
quantumbuilder 5 months ago next
That's a fantastic idea; I'd love to contribute! I'll upload schematics, design files, and other documentation to GitHub soon, so others may experiment and learn from my project.