New modular quantum platform QUB promises flexible research deployment

QuantWare, Q-CTRL and Qblox have partnered to launch the Quantum Utility Block (QUB), a modular quantum computing platform aimed at providing enterprise and research users with a validated, full-stack solution. QUB is available in sizes ranging from 5 to 41 qubits and incorporates components used in operational quantum systems.

Modular approach

The QUB platform combines QuantWare's quantum processing units (QPUs), Qblox's control electronics and Q-CTRL's calibration and error-suppression software. This modular approach is designed to address the trade-off between proprietary, closed systems and highly customised builds. QUB offers standardised configurations but retains the ability for integration into a range of data centre and research environments.

QUB systems are available in three main configurations: Small (5 qubits), Medium (19 qubits), and Large (41 qubits). All configurations are based on hardware and software previously validated through real-world use. The interoperable design is positioned to reduce complexity and provide predictable performance by using components with a record of performance in existing quantum operations.

Operational validation

The components of QUB have already been used in practical deployments. QuantWare's QPUs are established in the quantum market, while Qblox's technology provides essential electronic control for quantum hardware. Q-CTRL supplies infrastructure software, including autonomous QPU calibration and error suppression to maintain system stability and computation fidelity.

QUB is scheduled for deployment at Elevate Quantum's facility in Colourado as part of a demonstration to facilitate hands-on access for researchers and enterprises. The demonstration site, Quantum Platform for the Advancement of Commercialization (Q-PAC), intends to showcase the openness and scalability of the QUB approach in a research environment.

Commercial access

Adopters of quantum technology have often faced significant barriers, including the complexity of building custom stacks or the restrictions of closed, proprietary systems. QUB targets these issues by providing another option for organisations seeking performance and flexibility without extended development cycles. Customisation for integration with data centre and high-performance computing environments is available, along with consulting services to accelerate quantum programme rollouts.

"With QUB, we're removing the traditional barriers to quantum adoption," said Matt Rijlaarsdam, CEO, QuantWare. "Organisations no longer need to choose between opaque closed-stack systems or risky do-it-yourself builds. QUB lets them deploy proven quantum architectures faster, at lower cost, and with complete control over their technology future."

Software integration

QUB integrates Q-CTRL's software platform, which automates calibration and delivers algorithm error suppression. These capabilities are aimed at reducing operational overhead and supporting improved quantum computation outcomes in enterprise research settings. The software stack is designed to be flexible and is interoperable with the selected QPU and control hardware.

Alex Shih, VP of Product at Q-CTRL, said, "This partnership is about making full-scale quantum computing systems useful, accessible, and economically viable for the broadest range of users. QUB natively applies and extends our infrastructure software, where Boulder Opal Scale Up delivers autonomous, high-performance QPU calibration, while Fire Opal provides automated error suppression in algorithms, demonstrating software interoperability and flexibility to unlock performance for QuantWare QPUs and Qblox controllers. Through QUB, and its first deployment with Elevate Quantum, we are showing the world a clear and scalable path to quantum utility built on openness, collaboration, and practical tools that deliver real impact."

"QUB brings together three complementary leaders to make quantum systems more open, accessible and practical than ever before. This collaboration enables a scalable path to quantum utility," said Niels Bultink, CEO, Qblox.

"Partnering with QuantWare, Q-CTRL, and Qblox is a powerful example of how open collaboration can lower barriers, reduce risk, and unlock immediate, real-world access to quantum capabilities while also creating a national resource for training the next generation of quantum talent," said Jessi Olsen, COO/CFO, Elevate Quantum.