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How does Qiskit estimate error rates for quantum processors?
Asked on Nov 03, 2025
Answer
Qiskit estimates error rates for quantum processors by utilizing a combination of calibration routines and characterization protocols that measure the performance of qubits and gates. These methods are essential for understanding and mitigating errors in quantum computations.
Example Concept: Qiskit uses randomized benchmarking and quantum process tomography to estimate error rates. Randomized benchmarking involves applying sequences of random gates to qubits and measuring the decay of fidelity to determine average gate errors. Quantum process tomography reconstructs the complete process matrix of a quantum operation, providing detailed error characterization. These techniques help in assessing the reliability of quantum gates and the overall processor.
Additional Comment:
- Randomized benchmarking is preferred for its scalability and ability to provide average error rates over many gates.
- Quantum process tomography offers detailed insights but is more resource-intensive and less scalable for large systems.
- Qiskit provides tools for both methods, allowing users to choose based on their specific needs and available resources.
- Regular calibration and error estimation are crucial for maintaining high fidelity in quantum computations.
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