The word ‘quantum’ refers to size and is mainly used in relation to the smallest measurement of something. It is commonly used when measuring energy.
Quantum computing explained
In the tech world, quantum computers are used for their speed in solving complex problems.
It’s not that straightforward though. Quantum computing is based on quantum mechanics, which is used to study the movement and behavior of particles at microscopic levels. Quantum computing uses these behaviors to perform calculations in different ways from conventional or classical computing methods.
Classic computers are able to sort and analyze large quantities of data and produce accurate outcomes. However, when it comes to really complex computations, the larger computers often fail. This is where quantum computing comes in. The approach to computing is altogether different.
The unit of information in classical computing is the bit. Bits toggle between states of one and zero. A byte is a string of eight bits, and each combination of ones and zeros has a unique meaning. 32-bit and 64-bit computers have strings of bytes that are 32 or 64 characters in length.
The quantum equivalent of a byte is a qubit. However, instead of being in a state of either one or zero, qubits can be in multiple states at the same time. This means that software engineers need some sophisticated programming skills when telling a quantum computer what to do and how to do it.
Quantum computers are still in the early stages of development. For now, they are only really used for large applications that a conventional computer would not be able to solve in sufficient time. Because of the intricacy of quantum programming, it would be counter-productive to program quantum technology to do what normal computers can achieve.
Challenges in quantum computing
A quantum computer can be likened to a supercomputer. However, despite their undeniable sophistication, quantum machines still have their challenges.
Decoherence happens when qubits are exposed to radiation or other external factors. It causes qubits to lose their status and collapse. Technology experts are striving to find ways to shield qubits and other computer components from harmful external factors.
Some of the larger computers are also quite noisy, according to IBM. However, it is expected that these noisy machines will be able to go ‘mainstream’ in time. As an industry leader in the quantum computing space, IBM is responsible for developing Qiskit Runtime, the most powerful quantum programming model in the world.
What quantum computing means for programmers
There are many differences between conventional and quantum programming languages, meaning that the programming skills required for quantum computers are in a class of their own. Common quantum languages include Q Sharp, Qiskit and Cirq. The good news is that there is a need for more quantum computer languages, as well as for quantum computer engineers and programmers.
What quantum computers mean for software engineers
There is no consensus among the experts as to the best way to build a quantum computer. Various innovative technologies have their advantages and disadvantages. Companies and research groups are constantly striving to come up with the ultimate in qubit generation.
If you’re an aspiring software programmer and have an interest in bits, bytes and qubits, then an exciting future awaits in the quantum software engineering fields. With a computer science degree from Baylor University, you can choose your niche across the industry or become part of a research and development team that takes quantum technology into the future. Alternatively, you could get involved in cloud computing, blockchain or AI technology. The opportunities are endless, and the best part about being a computer scientist is that you’re always learning something new.
There will also be fascinating projects to get involved in, to prove that quantum computers can work in tandem across many miles, supported by different hardware architectures.
How quantum computing is being used in organizations
There are many quantum computing applications in commerce and industry today. The speed at which this technology can compute is helping companies save time and costs and providing some innovative solutions that, until recently, were out of our reach.
Quantum computing is good at optimization and simulation. Financial services are able to predict market fluctuations and optimize their loan portfolios. In the manufacturing and supply chain environment, quantum computer applications optimize planning, manufacturing and logistical processes for savings in cost and time.
A bright future in quantum computing
Quantum technology is relatively new and developing at a fast pace. The job opportunities are many and varied. Be one of the key players in a team that discovers and develops solutions in this fascinating science of the future.
