Introduction to Quantum Photonics
Computing with Single Photons: Your Gateway to Quantum
Single photons are the fundamental particles of light and serve as our quantum bits, or qubits. These "flying qubits" carry quantum information as they travel through carefully designed optical circuits. By manipulating these photons with linear optical components, we can perform complex quantum operations and computations.

Understanding Linear Optics Circuits
In photonic quantum computing, we manipulate qubits using linear optical components such as beam splitters, phase shifters, and mirrors. These components combine to form circuits where quantum information is processed. As you experiment with our Quantum Circuit Composer, you'll see how different arrangements of components affect the quantum state and measurement outcomes.
Introducing the Quantum Circuit Composer
Our interactive Quantum Circuit Composer allows you to design, visualize, and simulate photonic quantum circuits. Here's what you can do:
a) Graphically design your photonic circuit by arranging linear optical components
b) Send single photons into your circuit in desired modes
c) Visualize the resulting quantum state
d) Perform measurements and see the outcomes
e) View the equivalent Perceval code for your circuit


From Visual to Code: Meet Perceval
While the Composer offers an intuitive graphical interface, it also bridges the gap to real-world quantum programming. As you design your circuits, you'll notice that the Composer displays the equivalent Perceval code - our Python framework for designing and simulating photonic quantum circuits.
This feature of the Composer is crucial for your learning journey:
- It shows you how your visual designs translate into actual quantum programming code.
- You can see in real-time how changes in your circuit affect the underlying code.
- It helps you start thinking in terms of quantum programming structures.
As you experiment with different circuits in the Composer, pay attention to how the Perceval code changes. This will give you insights into how to structure your own quantum programs using Perceval, preparing you for more advanced quantum programming tasks.
Whether you prefer visual design or coding, the Quantum Circuit Composer caters to both, making your transition into the world of quantum programming smooth and intuitive.
Dive Deeper into Quantum Concepts
Ready to explore these concepts further? Our comprehensive Training Center offers in-depth courses on all aspects of photonic quantum computing, from basic principles to advanced techniques. Whether you're looking to master Perceval or understand the intricacies of discrete variable photonic quantum computing, you'll find the resources you need to deepen your knowledge.