ORCA Computing and PCSS Pioneer Breakthrough in Quantum AI Integration for Data Centers
In a landmark achievement, ORCA Computing, a leader in quantum computing, has unveiled a blueprint for integrating photonic quantum AI into real-world data centers. This groundbreaking collaboration with NVIDIA, Imperial College London, and the Poznań Supercomputing and Networking Center (PCSS) demonstrates how hybrid quantum–classical systems can be deployed at scale to tackle next-generation AI and machine learning workloads. By combining ORCA’s photonic quantum processors with NVIDIA’s accelerated computing and CUDA-Q software platform, the project bridges the gap between theoretical quantum computing and practical, operational high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
A Blueprint for Scalable Quantum AI
The collaboration marks a significant milestone in the evolution of quantum computing, offering organizations a deployment-ready and upgradeable pathway to adopt quantum-accelerated architectures without requiring extensive infrastructure overhauls. At the heart of this effort are two ORCA PT photonic quantum processors housed within the PCSS data center alongside NVIDIA Hopper GPUs. Operating at room temperature and integrated seamlessly through the NVIDIA CUDA-Q platform and the Slurm workload manager, the system allows researchers to program both classical and quantum resources within a unified environment.
This marks the first time photonic quantum processors have been integrated through CUDA-Q, creating a scalable framework for hybrid machine learning and HPC applications. The integration not only validates the feasibility of deploying quantum systems in traditional data centers but also provides a replicable model for other facilities seeking to enhance their computational capabilities with quantum technologies.
“Working together with Imperial College and PCSS, we’ve delivered a working demonstration of a distributed photonic quantum neural network inside a real data center,” said Richard Murray, PhD, Co-founder and CEO of ORCA Computing. “This approach offers a clear, upgradeable path for organizations to adopt quantum-accelerated architectures without large-scale infrastructure changes.”
Bridging Quantum and Classical Computing
The collaboration highlights the seamless integration of multiple quantum processing units (QPUs) and NVIDIA GPUs, showcasing that quantum-accelerated supercomputing is no longer a distant promise but a tangible reality. Krzysztof Kurowski, Deputy Director & CTO of PCSS, emphasized this point: “Our collaboration with ORCA and Imperial College has allowed us to create a unique quantum-classical hybrid system at PCSS. The open, easy integration of multiple QPUs and NVIDIA GPUs demonstrates that quantum-accelerated supercomputing is here today.”
The project builds on award-winning research from Imperial College London, whose foundational paper was recognized as Best Paper in the photonics track at a premier quantum conference during IEEE Quantum Week. By running a distributed system within an operational data center, the team has not only proven the viability of hybrid quantum-classical systems but also established a clear framework for broader adoption.
“The integration of quantum into the fabric of HPC is a critical step toward developing the future of quantum-accelerated supercomputing, combining multiple quantum accelerators with many classical accelerators,” said Sam Stanwyck, Group Product Manager for Quantum at NVIDIA. “This work shows how the CUDA-Q platform can accelerate progress toward this future with open, performant, and purpose-built software.”
Advancing Practical Quantum Computing
This achievement underscores how quantum computing can transition from theoretical proposals to practical, operational HPC environments. The system’s ability to operate within standard 19-inch rack cabinets at room temperature makes it particularly appealing for widespread adoption. Moreover, the use of photonic quantum processors—known for their scalability and low error rates—positions ORCA’s technology as a key player in the race toward large-scale quantum computing.
The team plans to continue expanding algorithmic capabilities, reducing latency, and scaling to next-generation quantum systems. These efforts aim to accelerate progress toward useful, large-scale quantum computing applications across industries. For more technical details, readers can explore ORCA Computing’s blog post detailing the distributed quantum neural network demonstration in a hybrid HPC environment.
Building Global Momentum
This latest advancement builds on ORCA’s pioneering work in hybrid quantum-classical platforms, including its launch of a hybrid AI system at PSNC with NVIDIA CUDA-Q. It also follows Montana State University’s deployment of two PT Series photonic computing systems to accelerate distributed quantum computing and deliver practical impact. These initiatives highlight ORCA’s growing influence in the quantum computing space, with PT Series systems now powering projects across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Notable collaborations include partnerships with the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), the UK Ministry of Defence, and other leading enterprise and government institutions. ORCA’s photonic quantum systems are increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of the global push toward quantum-accelerated supercomputing.
A Vision for the Future
By demonstrating the integration of photonic quantum AI into real-world data centers, ORCA Computing, PCSS, Imperial College London, and NVIDIA have set a new benchmark for hybrid quantum–classical systems. Their work not only validates the potential of quantum computing in enhancing AI and machine learning workloads but also provides a roadmap for organizations looking to harness the power of quantum technologies.
As quantum computing continues to evolve, collaborations like this one will play a pivotal role in driving innovation and delivering practical solutions to complex computational challenges. With scalable, deployable systems already in operation, the future of quantum-accelerated supercomputing looks brighter than ever.
“This isn’t just about advancing quantum computing—it’s about transforming industries,” added Richard Murray. “By integrating quantum into the fabric of HPC, we’re paving the way for breakthroughs that will redefine what’s possible in AI, machine learning, and beyond.”
With this milestone, ORCA Computing and its partners are leading the charge toward a new era of computing—one where quantum and classical systems work in harmony to unlock unprecedented possibilities.
About ORCA Computing
ORCA Computing, headquartered in London, UK, with offices in the United States, is a leading developer and provider of full-stack photonic quantum computing systems. The company delivers an innovative approach to quantum computing, providing robust, high-performance, and data center-standard systems for machine learning, generative AI and optimization workloads. ORCA Computing has successfully delivered ten on-premises quantum computers to leading global customers, including the UK National Quantum Computing Centre, Montana State University, and the Poznan Supercomputing and Networking Center.
