A quantum computer is the fastest computer in the world.
As quantum computer scientists and engineers work diligently designing and building these computers, they will only become more capable of performing tasks at incredible speeds.
In this guide, you will learn why quantum computers have high processing speeds and how you can take advantage of this technology.
Is Quantum Computer The Fastest Computer?
Up until recently, the fastest computers were supercomputers.
Supercomputers are classical computers containing thousands of processing units, ensuring that they can carry out algorithms extremely fast.
Quantum computers run on quantum principles, allowing them to perform many algorithms simultaneously.
So, they can accomplish tasks faster than traditional or supercomputers.
The fastest quantum computer can perform processes 100 sextillion times faster than a large, classical computer.
Additionally, Google created a quantum computer 158 million times quicker than the fastest supercomputer.
Engineers are still working on which procedures a quantum computer can carry out efficiently.
While it may be faster, it can still only do particular tasks.
Meanwhile, classical computers are still superior in achieving an extensive array of assignments.
Will Quantum Computers Replace Computers?
Leading tech companies are working on ways quantum computers can run alongside or integrate into classical computers.
Likewise, quantum computing simulations are only possible through classical computer platforms.
Quantum computers are only more efficient at performing specific tasks.
So, a classical computer is still better for running one-at-a-time sequences or inspecting each element in a stack.
A quantum computer would make an excellent choice for searching large sets of data or databases, running complicated calculations, and finding solutions to complex issues.
However, it is difficult and expensive to build a quantum computer.
You need to regulate and maintain low temperatures and acquire large spaces for the hardware.
For these reasons, people will still need classical computers or prefer hybrid classical-quantum computers.
Learn more: Windows on Quantum Computer
Why Is It Called Quantum Computing?
Quantum refers to the smallest unit of any phenomenon or interaction of physical entities.
Quantum physics studies the behavior and interactions of these small units.
Quantum computing focuses on designing and developing computer and computer technologies running on those quantum principles.
Additionally, a qubit is short for a quantum bit, a basic unit of quantum information.
Similar to classical bits, the number of qubits is directly related to the computer’s power.
Learn more: Is Quantum Computing Computer Science?
How Much Does A Quantum Computer Cost?
Currently, companies have launched two quantum computers for sale.
D-Wave sold a 2000 qubit quantum computer for $15 million, and SpinQ will launch a 2 qubit quantum computer for $5,000.
Most individuals and businesses would benefit from at least 1,000 qubits, which may be available as early as 2023 or 2025.
Given the present-day prices, you may expect to pay around $10 million for a quantum computer of this size.
Quantum computers are expensive because they require profound expertise to design and develop and a significant amount of hardware.
Further, they are still undergoing development and optimization.
Are Quantum Computers Available To The Public?
Quantum computers are not yet available to the public for multiple reasons:
- The technology is in its early stages.
- Current prototypes do not have enough qubits yet.
- Quantum processors are best only for certain tasks which may not be desirable for the general public.
- Developers have not created a hybrid classical-quantum computer yet.
- Quantum hardware takes up a large amount of space and is incredibly heavy.
- Quantum computers must remain at low temperatures.
- Most primary quantum computer applications will be for professional and specialized use.
While scientists and engineers are content with these issues, tech companies still intend to develop quantum computers for consumers in the coming few years.
Fortunately, some companies have launched quantum computing technology for computer scientists, programmers and developers, and engineers.
IBM provides access to its quantum simulators via the cloud, their 5 qubits and 7 qubits quantum processing units (QPUs), IBM Quantum Composer, IBM Quantum Lab, Qiskit, Qiskit Runtime, and Quantum Accelerator.
Microsoft Azure offers access to a platform where you can run computing simulations or directly use a quantum computer.
Amazon Braket provides an environment where you can write and run quantum algorithms.
Although you may not have a physical quantum computer, these platforms give you a chance to explore and learn about quantum computers.
Can You Purchase A Quantum Computer?
Individuals and businesses desire to jump on quantum computing technology as soon as it is commercially available.
Fortunately, you may not have to wait long as SpinQ plans to place its 2-qubit quantum computer for commercial sale soon.
While the low price of $5,000 may tempt you to buy one of your own, remember that 2 qubits may not perform up to your expectations.
You may wish to watch for other prominent companies with new developments on the horizon.
These firms include IBM, D-Wave, Google, Amazon, and Microsoft.
Learn more: Is Quantum Computing Profitable?
How Long Does A Quantum Computer Last?
Quantum processing units (QPU’s) cannot hold their quantum state for long periods (yet).
Scientists are working on ways to make quantum states last longer.
They progressed to 22 milliseconds in 2020 and recently discovered a way they could potentially reach 1.5 seconds.
That may sound like a very short amount of time. However, it is a long time for a batch of qubits to run, and they can perform many tasks in that time.
If scientists and engineers place a high number of qubits in a quantum computer, ensuring batches of qubits run while others stop, their quantum computer could theoretically run indefinitely.
Final Thoughts
You may be waiting for quantum computers with anticipation, as they promise speed, power, and calculation capabilities beyond current supercomputing.
While you may need to wait a few more years for the first commercial quantum computer, consider checking out free quantum computing platforms and direct access to quantum computers via your traditional computer.
You are bound to enjoy your new experience, learn new things, and perhaps even run a successful quantum algorithm.
