Entangleware
Deterministic Control & Sequencing for Scientific Experiments
Describe complex experimental timing in Python.
Execute it deterministically on FPGA hardware.
Entangleware is a mixed-signal experimental sequencing platform that allows scientists to define precise digital and analog control sequences in Python and execute them with sub-microsecond determinism using FPGA-based hardware.
What Is Entangleware?
Entangleware is a deterministic waveform sequencing system designed for laboratory experiments that require precise, repeatable coordination of digital and analog signals.
Instead of relying on software timing loops or ad-hoc pulse scripts, Entangleware compiles experimental sequences ahead of time and executes them on FPGA hardware. This eliminates operating-system jitter and timing ambiguity, enabling reliable shot-to-shot reproducibility even for long and complex experiments.
Entangleware is particularly well suited for atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, quantum information, and other experimental systems where timing accuracy and maintainability are critical.
Avoiding Proprietary Hardware Lock-In
Entangleware operates by running as a dedicated control executable that takes exclusive ownership of selected National Instruments FPGA and DAQ hardware. While the Entangleware executable is running, that hardware is reserved and ready to execute deterministic sequences in response to Python commands.
When Entangleware is not running, the hardware is fully released and may be used by other software and workflows according to the laboratory’s needs. Entangleware does not impose permanent hardware ownership or proprietary constraints, allowing laboratories to reassign and repurpose hardware as their control architecture evolves.
Built on Industrial-Grade Hardware
While National Instruments hardware is proprietary, it is widely deployed, extensively documented, and supported over long lifetimes. Entangleware leverages this mature ecosystem to provide deterministic experimental control without locking users into custom or closed hardware platforms.
How It Works
1. Describe your experiment in Python
Write experimental sequences as readable, modular Python code. Define absolute and relative timing, reuse sequence blocks, and organize experiments logically.
tc = TimeCursor()
load_mot(tc)
compressed_mot(tc)
state_prep(tc)
image_atoms(tc)2. Entangleware compiles the sequence
Your Python description is compiled into a deterministic timeline:
- Events are sorted and merged
- Timing is snapped to the hardware clock grids
- Digital and analog outputs are coordinated
- Hardware limits are enforced
3. FPGA hardware executes deterministically
The compiled sequence is sent to FPGA hardware and executed without runtime interpretation. All timing decisions are resolved before execution, ensuring precise and repeatable control.
4. Repeatable, scalable experimental control
The same sequence produces the same timing every run, even as experiments grow in size and complexity.
Why Entangleware?
Deterministic timing
Sequences are compiled and executed on FPGA hardware, eliminating software jitter and race conditions.
Python-based workflow
Define experiments in a familiar, scriptable environment instead of managing large graphical timing diagrams.
Mixed digital and analog control
Coordinate hundreds of digital outputs alongside analog ramps and setpoints in a single timing model.
Scales with experiment complexity
Designed for experiments that evolve over time, with reusable sequence blocks and structured timing constructs.
Reproducible and inspectable
Compiled sequences are deterministic, testable, and auditable—critical for long-running experiments and publications.
What Entangleware Is (and Is Not)
Entangleware is:
- A deterministic sequencing and control platform
- A Python-based compiler for experimental timing
- An FPGA-backed execution engine
Entangleware is not:
- A general-purpose DAQ or data streaming system
- A real-time feedback controller during sequence execution
- A replacement for full LabVIEW GUIs or instrument drivers
Entangleware focuses on precise timing and control, and integrates with existing measurement and analysis tools.
Hardware Compatibility
Entangleware integrates with National Instruments FPGA and analog output hardware, including:
- NI PCIe/PXIe-7820R (128 digital outputs)
- NI PCIe/PXIe-6363 (analog outputs)
- NI PCI/PXI-6733, 6738, PXIe-6739
The system uses a network-based interface between Python and an Entangleware FPGA Application, allowing flexibility in deployment and future hardware expansion.
Designed for Scientific Research
Entangleware was developed to address the real challenges of experimental control in modern physics laboratories:
- Experiments that grow more complex over time
- Timing requirements beyond what software loops can reliably provide
- The need for readable, maintainable experimental code
- Long-term reproducibility and confidence in timing correctness
A detailed description of the system architecture and performance is available in the accompanying academic publication.
Licensing & Availability
Entangleware is available under commercial and academic licenses.
Typical pricing:
- Academic single-lab license: $3,200
- Public research single-lab license: $4,000
- Commercial licenses: $8,000+
Please contact us to discuss your experimental requirements and licensing options.
Get Started
Interested in using Entangleware in your lab?
- Contact us for a demo or trial
- Discuss hardware compatibility
- Learn how Entangleware can simplify your experimental control
Contact:
📧 josh@entangleware.com
🌐 entangleware.com