New Custom Control of Quantum Computing Testbed Hardware Through Low Level Access

Developing new gates and algorithms critical for scaling quantum platforms requires pulse level hardware control. The Quantum Scientific Computing Open User Testbed (QSCOUT) at Sandia National Laboratories is a quantum processor based on Yb-171 trapped ions specifically designed for this level of access. QSCOUT stands out by offering users transparent pulse-level control, which not only supports customized gate operations and flexible qubit manipulation but also enables the control of bosonic modes in ions. Jaqal (Just Another Quantum Assembly Language), which was developed specifically for controlling ion qubits on the QSCOUT hardware, includes full parameterization of single qubit rotation gates, two-qubit Mølmer-Sørensen (MS) gates, and the ability to define unique pulse waveforms. Here, we explore how users can leverage both the QSCOUT hardware and the Jaqal software to gain exceptional low-level access to the experiment for their quantum computing applications. We present an overview of current capabilities offered by QSCOUT through a survey of current users as well as future integrations, developments, and collaboration opportunities.