Quantum Computer Simulators

This paper offers the first available overview of progress in the field of quantum computer simulation. As research effort in quantum computation grows, together with the number of field researchers, it seems certain that quantum computer simulators will play a major role in this research. Quantum computer simulators are discussed together with their role in the study of quantum computation. Currently available simulators are described and compared, and recommendations are given for the most appropriate simulators to use for specified purposes. In addition, a generalised, extensible framework of metrics for comparing quantum computer simulators is introduced and demonstrated. An awareness of the functions and features of existing simulators is essential for researchers in the field, to avoid duplication of effort and to build on the foundations of previous work.