Hardware Podcasts

Inside Quantum Computing Hardware with Šimon Marek | OnTrack

OnTrack · 13 Jan 2026 · 46m · Episode 330

What this episode covers

Quantum hardware designer Šimon Marek explains that superconducting quantum chips are transitioning from research labs to commercial products, requiring hundreds of qubits for useful operations. He details how these systems function as complex microwave engineering problems, utilizing transmon qubits, Josephson junctions, and control electronics operating at 5-10 GHz. Marek outlines the fabrication workflow, from lump-element simulation to layout in tools like KiCad and EM simulation in Ansys HFSS, highlighting the use of aluminum on silicon or sapphire substrates. He emphasizes that traditional RF and PCB design skills, including impedance matching and shielding, are directly applicable to designing the FPGA-based control boards and cryogenic amplifiers needed for these systems.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
IBM, Google, GlobalFoundries, Skywater
Products
SiMOS LNA, SiMOS ALNA, AMD Zynq
Tools
KiCad, Ansys HFSS, CST, Keysight, Microwave Studio, Elmer, Balsam

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