A Tool For Debugging Quantum Circuits

Abstract

As the scale of quantum programs grows to match that of classical software, the nascent field of quantum software engineering must mature and tools such as debuggers will become increasingly important. However, developing a quantum debugger is challenging due to the nature of a quantum computer; sneaking a peek at the value of a quantum state will cause either partial or complete collapse of the superposition and may destroy the necessary entanglement. As a first step to developing a full quantum circuit debugger, we have designed and implemented a quantum circuit debugging tool. The tool allows the user to divide the circuit vertically or horizontally into smaller chunks known as slices, and manage their simulation or execution for either interactive debugging or automated testing. The tool also enables developers to track gates within the overall circuit and each chunk to understand their behavior better. Feedback on usefulness and usability from early users shows that using the tool to slice and test their circuits has helped make the debugging process more time-efficient for them.