Quantum computing can tackle complex problems that regular computers can’t handle. However, it faces challenges with scaling up and costs.

Here’s where Dublin-based Equal1, founded by experts in quantum physics and semiconductors, aims to democratise quantum computing by making it accessible and affordable with its innovative quantum silicon technology.

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What does Equal1 do?

Founded in 2018 as a University College Dublin spin-off, Equal1 is developing a full-stack quantum computer with an AI layer using semiconductor technology.

Equal1’s UnityQ, the first hybrid quantum-classical chip, integrates all quantum components for improved performance and efficiency.

Its quantum processor, based on silicon spin qubits co-developed by TNO and the Delft University of Technology, has the potential to enable breakthroughs in climate modelling, finance, and AI.

In this edition of “What’s in a name,” we at Silicon Canals interviewed Dirk Leipold, president and co-founder of Equal1, to learn more about the selection of the name and the reason behind it!

A nerdy inspiration

Equal1 is an acronym for “Entangle Quantum Aperture Logic 1 Dimensional.

“The idea was that if you have two touching rectangles touching each other in the corner you create a very narrow opening or aperture where the wave function needs to pass through so when you now solve the eigenfunction of the wave function using the WKB (Wentzel Kramers Brilluoin) you find that the energy levels along this cord line solution is much lower then the perpendicular values so for your ground state you only need to consider the cord line values,” explains Leipold.

Leipold says that the name was initially chosen for its low-level functional aspects.

But once they had settled on this name, the team recognised it and described a “one for all and all for one” team mindset, which they found to be quite cool.

Democratising quantum computing

According to Leipold, the process leading to the finalisation of the name was driven by mission and “organisation structure of the company.”

“Our mission is to democratise quantum computing, making this transformative technology accessible and affordable for everyone, and the name Equal1 captures both the physics roots and the collaborative spirit behind it,” he says.

Leipold believes that every part of a quantum system is connected and works together.

In the same way, the company wants to create a future where everyone can access quantum computing, instead of it being available only to a few people.

Transition from casual club to company

Initially, the organisation started as the “Quantum Computing Club,” functioning as a non-profit.

During this phase, they incorporated under that name and secured the domain equal1.org, which only took about two weekends, according to Leipold. Afterwards, they also reserved the .com and .net domains.

“As it became clear that the cost of building an actual quantum computer exceeded our club budget, we started to investigate the VC route, re-organised as a C corp and bumped into our first investor through our University College Dublin (UCD) connection (Equal1 ultimately became a spin-out from UCD).”

The role of domains

For many founders, domain names can make or break the process.

However, Leipold had other ideas.

“If we hadn’t gotten the domain name, we would most likely have just added something to the acronym (equal1dim or something stupid like that). As stated, being a bit naive and in a non-profit state has its perks,” he adds.

Fortunately, the company didn’t go through any trademarking challenges, clarifies Leipold.

When it comes to the future growth and evolution of the name, he says, “We have been exceptionally lucky. The name is very good for diversification, inclusion, equity, and so on. But as you see from above, that was a happening and not an intentional design.”

Does a name matter?

“I think for Equal1, you see that naming your company is a very complex process, and you clearly see that life just takes you places,” he says.

The company’s goal is to democratise quantum computing and make practical quantum computers available to everyone.

He believes that using quantum computers with quantum communications will help to make human interaction via a computer non-copiable, unique, and non-interceptable, and it turns out that going for this lofty goal will take much more time and resources than our small team could master.

“However, Equal1 is still young and we can only hope that the noble goal encoded in its name will stand the test of time,” he concludes.