Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
If you do not find the assistance you need here, contact IBM Quantum via Slack (opens in a new tab) for help.
What background knowledge do I need?
What background knowledge do I need?
IBM Quantum Lab lets you use Qiskit code to create quantum circuits in a Jupyter notebook environment. Therefore, an understanding of Jupyter notebooks and Qiskit (opens in a new tab) will be helpful. Additionally, at least some understanding of linear algebra (opens in a new tab) will help you better understand quantum computing.
To learn about quantum computing, start with Quantum computing in a nutshell (opens in a new tab).
Where should I start?
Where should I start?
For collaborators who are new to Qiskit, IBM Quantum Lab, or Jupyter notebooks, we recommend starting with the Code your first quantum circuit tutorial. More advanced users might want to start with the Getting started with Qiskit (opens in a new tab) tutorial, or other Qiskit tutorials (opens in a new tab).
To learn about quantum computing, start with Quantum computing in a nutshell (opens in a new tab).
How are instances, hubs, groups, and projects related?
How are instances, hubs, groups, and projects related?
Hubs, groups, and projects are the organization levels for instances. At the lowest level, collaborators (non-administrator users) are members of projects. Projects are members of groups, and groups are members of hubs. An organization typically has one hub, which can be divided into any number of groups. Each group can then be divided into any number of projects. Administrators assign access to systems at the project and group level.
See this topic for more information: Instances.
Where is my API token?
Where is my API token?
Your API token is on your IBM Quantum Dashboard (opens in a new tab), near the top for easy access.
How can I use systems that are accessible through the Premium Plan?
How can I use systems that are accessible through the Premium Plan?
Organizations that belong to the IBM Quantum Network can use systems that are accessible through the Premium Plan. Information is available at this link (opens in a new tab).
How do I make a reservation for time on a system?
How do I make a reservation for time on a system?
For IBM Quantum Network (opens in a new tab) members, hub administrators can reserve time for collaborators to use systems so you do not have to wait in a queue. Each collaborator can view his or her upcoming reservations on the details page for the relevant system. Contact your administrator for more information.
How do I share a notebook?
How do I share a notebook?
To share a notebook, open it in Lab, then click File → Download. Share your downloaded file with others by using your preferred method.
Are there geographies from which I cannot use this service?
Are there geographies from which I cannot use this service?
This service is not available in all geographies. For more information, contact IBM (opens in a new tab).