DOE Fermilab and Qblox Finalize Agreement to Commercialize QICK Platform

Key Takeaways

Platform Commercialization: Qblox will coordinate U.S. manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain operations for the open-source QICK quantum control platform.

Workforce Development: Dedicated training programs built around QICK will deliver hands-on experience to students and professionals entering the quantum sector.

Strategic Collaboration: The finalized CRADA and licensing arrangement accelerates the transition of national laboratory technology into a domestically supported commercial product.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Technology Commercialization has announced a finalized agreement between Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) and Qblox that enables the commercialization of the Quantum Instrumentation Control Kit (QICK). The partnership, executed through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) and full licensing terms, authorizes Qblox to begin full-scale commercialization of the platform in the United States and to develop associated workforce training programs.

QICK Platform Architecture and Control Capabilities

QICK is an open-source platform developed by Fermilab for quantum readout and control. It provides the precise synchronization of quantum processors and sensors required for scalable quantum computing, sensing, and networking systems. The technology has already reached approximately 500 users across U.S. national laboratories, universities, and industry.

The system is built around Xilinx RFSoC field-programmable gate array technology. It supports direct synthesis of microwave control pulses at carrier frequencies up to 6 GHz and performs real-time digital signal processing with minimal latency, supporting advanced quantum protocols including error correction and feedback operations.

The hardware configuration typically includes multiple RF digital-to-analog converters (DACs) operating at multi-gigasample-per-second rates and corresponding analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), with packaged implementations offering up to 32 RF/DC channels in a compact, cost-effective format designed for laboratory and research flexibility.

Further, QICK:

  • Facilitates arbitrary waveform synthesis with integrated numerically controlled oscillators and digital up/down conversion
  • Provides flexible firmware and Python-based software interfaces for rapid experiment development
  • Supports multi-qubit control as well as detector readout applications
  • Is currently utilized by a community of approximately 500 researchers and developers

Fermilab retains responsibility for ongoing scientific advancement of the core platform technology.

U.S. Commercialization and Workforce Development Programs

Qblox, a provider of control and readout electronics that bridge quantum and classical domains, will assume responsibility for scaling manufacturing, establishing distribution channels, and securing a robust domestic supply chain for QICK hardware. This step transitions the technology from research-grade availability to reliable commercial production.

The company will simultaneously develop and launch educational and training programs giving students and quantum professionals direct experience with the platform. These initiatives address the growing need for skilled personnel capable of deploying and operating advanced quantum control systems.

Energy Department Under Secretary for Science Dr. Darío Gil stated the finalized agreement demonstrates how DOE national laboratories and private industry can collaborate to commercialize quantum technologies and strengthen U.S. manufacturing and workforce capabilities. The effort supports the creation of scalable, interoperable quantum systems aligned with national and scientific priorities.

Qblox Founder and CEO Niels Bultink said the company is prepared to begin commercialization of the Made-in-the-USA platform and remains committed to open-source development and advancement of the U.S. quantum ecosystem through dedicated workforce programs.

The partnership establishes a replicable framework for accelerating the movement of laboratory-developed quantum technologies into commercial products while building the domestic talent base required for sector growth.

Find out more here.

Further articles, reports, and the latest quantum computing news may be found at The Qubit Report.

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