Supported architecture in Boulder Opal
Identify the supported QPU models and controller vendor models that are supported in the Boulder Opal platform
Boulder Opal integrates three layers: the quantum processor (QPU), the classical control electronics, and a software wiring abstraction that maps logical operations to physical hardware channels.
This document covers each supported QPU model and the control electronics families within the Boulder Opal platform.
1. Supported quantum processors
Boulder Opal supports QuantWare superconducting processors in several form factors. Each model defines a fixed qubit count, connectivity topology, and coupling mechanism.
| Vendor | Model | Qubit count |
|---|---|---|
| QuantWare | Soprano-D | 5 |
| Contralto-A | 17 | |
| Contralto-D | 17–21 | |
| Tenor-D | 64 | |
| Rigetti | Novera | 9 |
Other custom or private device models may also be supported. Please discuss with your Q-CTRL point of contact to verify any additional supported devices.
See Device Configuration reference documents for specific details of each supported device
2. Supported control electronics
The platform supports two controller families. Both provide the RF drive, readout, and DC flux channels required for superconducting qubit control.
2.1 Qblox
Qblox instruments provide modular control through dedicated RF and baseband modules:
| Module | Role |
|---|---|
| QCM-RF | Qubit drive: generates IQ-modulated microwave pulses |
| QRM-RF | Readout: transmits probe tones and digitizes the return signal |
| QCM (baseband) | Flux control: outputs DC and fast-flux pulses |
Register a Qblox system through a QbloxSystemInfo object.
You can find more information in our tutorial for Qblox.
2.2 Quantum Machines
Quantum Machines OPX controllers handle drive, readout, and flux from a single programmable platform; the Octave companion module provides up- and down-conversion for microwave frequencies.
| Module | Role |
|---|---|
| OPX+ / OPX1000 | Drive, readout, and flux on a programmable pulse processor |
| Octave | IQ mixing for up- and down-conversion as a companion to OPX |
Register a Quantum Machines system by providing the OPX host, cluster name, and any attached Octave units. You can find more information in our tutorial for Quantum Machines.
3. Component model
The virtual device stores a SuperconductingProcessor containing all physical components and their calibrated parameters.
You can find more information in our virtual devices topic and in the reference documentation.
