Modern quantum computing and quantum research systems demand nanosecond-level timing accuracy, high-speed waveform generation, and synchronized multi-channel readout. Traditionally, achieving this level of precision has required complex, custom-built instrumentation, increasing system cost, development time, and integration effort.
To address these challenges, iWave has successfully implemented and validated the QICK framework on Zynq™ UltraScale+™ ZU49DR RFSoC System on Module (SOM). This solution enables real-time quantum control and measurement by combining FPGA-based hardware acceleration with flexible, software-driven experiment control in a compact, production-ready form factor.
What is QICK?
QICK (Quantum Instrumentation Control Kit) is an open-source framework designed to simplify quantum system control and readout. It combines:
- An RFSoC-based hardware platform
- Custom FPGA firmware for real-time signal processing
- Python-based software control, typically accessed through Jupyter notebooks
QICK bridges the gap between high-speed quantum instrumentation and flexible software development, allowing users to rapidly define, execute, and iterate quantum experiments without deep FPGA expertise.
QICK Architecture on RFSoC
The QICK architecture leverages the heterogeneous capabilities of the RFSoC by dividing responsibilities between the Processing System (PS) and Programmable Logic (PL):
- Processing System (PS)
Runs embedded Linux on Arm cores and provides high-level experiment control, configuration, sequencing, and data management through Python-based software interfaces. - Programmable Logic (PL)
Implements time-critical functions such as waveform generation, digital up/down conversion, filtering, triggering, buffering, and scheduling. These functions operate in tightly clock-aligned pipelines to ensure deterministic, nanosecond-level timing.
A key component is the QICK timed processor (tProcessor), which executes deterministic instruction sequences with extremely low latency. This enables precise pulse sequencing, synchronized multi-channel operation, and real-time feedback or feedforward essential for advanced quantum experiments.
Role of PYNQ in the QICK Software
QICK operates on top of a Python-based control environment enabled by PYNQ (Python Productivity for Zynq). PYNQ provides the underlying Linux and Python framework that allows users to interact with the RFSoC hardware using high-level software abstractions.
Within this architecture, PYNQ serves as the software foundation for running QICK APIs, managing overlays, and enabling interactive control through Python and Jupyter notebooks. This combination allows users to configure experiments, control timing, and visualize results while all deterministic, real-time operations continue to execute in FPGA hardware.
For readers interested, iWave has previously detailed this approach in its article on Python-based RF system design using PYNQ on AMD RFSoC.
QICK Implementation on RFSoC System on Module powered by iWave
iWave has integrated QICK on Zynq™ UltraScale+™ ZU49DR RFSoC SoM, leveraging the device’s integrated multi-GSPS ADCs and DACs for direct RF waveform generation and acquisition. Several custom IP blocks are incorporated into the QICK overlays, tightly coupled with the timing and data paths, and exposed to the software layer.
Key capabilities demonstrated on the iWave RFSoC SoM include:
- Phase-defined waveform transmission and capture with maintained phase alignment
- Phase-coherent operation across multiple channels and pulses
- Support for large data captures, averaging, decimation, and extended readout windows
- Multiplexed signal generation and readout with deterministic timing and low-latency feedback
High-speed data movement between the PS and PL is handled through AXI interfaces and DMA, allowing users to control experiments from Python while all real-time operations execute in hardware.
Why iWave RFSoC SoM for Quantum Instrumentation
By implementing QICK on its RFSoC System on Module, iWave delivers a compact, production-ready platform for quantum control and measurement:
- Integrated multi-GSPS RF ADCs and DACs for direct waveform synthesis and acquisition
- FPGA-based deterministic timing for nanosecond-level precision
- Linux and Python-based software environment for rapid prototyping
- Reduced hardware complexity compared to discrete, multi-board quantum instrumentation setups
This makes the iWave RFSoC SoM well suited for quantum research labs, experimental quantum computing platforms, and advanced RF instrumentation systems that require tight integration between hardware precision and software flexibility.
The successful validation of QICK on iWave’s Zynq™ UltraScale+™ RFSoC System on Module demonstrates how complex quantum control systems can be simplified using a tightly integrated hardware-software platform. By combining real-time FPGA acceleration, high-speed RF conversion, and user-friendly software control, iWave enables faster development cycles and scalable quantum instrumentation solutions for next-generation research and experimentation.
iWave is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of FPGA System on Modules and ODM Design Services. With over 26 years of diverse experience in the FPGA domain and a strong design-to-deployment competence, iWave strives to transform your ideas into time-to-market products with reliability, cost, and performance balance.
Looking for more insights? Contact us at mktg@iwave-global.com.
