A new computer-controlled platform for ADC-based true random number generator and its applications

SELÇUK COŞKUN,AKİF AKGÜL,İHSAN PEHLİVAN,BİLAL GÜREVİN

doi:10.3906/elk-1806-167

SELÇUK COŞKUN, AKİF AKGÜL + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3906/elk-1806-167

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Abstract

The basis of encryption techniques is random number generators (RNGs). The application areas of cryptology are increasing in number due to continuously developing technology, so the need for RNGs is increasing rapidly, too. RNGs can be divided into two categories as pseudorandom number generator (PRNGs) and true random number generator (TRNGs). TRNGs are systems that use unpredictable and uncontrollable entropy sources and generate random numbers. During the design of TRNGs, while analog signals belonging to the used entropy sources are being converted to digital data, generally comparators, flip-flops, Schmitt triggers, and ADCs are used. In this study, a computer-controlled new and flexible platform to find the most appropriate system parameters in ADC-based TRNG designs is designed and realized. As a sample application with this new platform, six different TRNGs that use three different outputs of Zhongtang, which is a continuous time chaotic system, as an entropy source are designed. Random number series generated with the six designed TRNGs are put through the NIST800–22 test, which has the internationally highest standards, and they pass all tests. With the help of the new platform designed, ADC-based high-quality TRNGs can be developed fast and also without the need for expertise. The platform has been designed to decide which entropy source and parameter are better by comparing them before complex embedded TRNG designs. In addition, this platform can be used for educational purposes to explain how to work an ADC-based TRNG. That is why it can be utilized as an experiment set in engineering education, as well.

Highlights

With current technology at its peak today, communication security has turned out to be even more crucial, both in individual and international terms
The randomness of true random number generators (TRNGs) generally depends on the entropy source, sampling process, and postprocessing algorithms [17,18,19]
During the design of TRNGs, while analog signals belonging to the used entropy sources are being converted to digital data, generally comparators, flip-flops, Schmitt triggers, and ADCs are used

Summary

Introduction

With current technology at its peak today, communication security has turned out to be even more crucial, both in individual and international terms. TRNGs, unlike PRNGs, are systems that make use of unpredictable and uncontrollable entropy (noise) sources and generate random numbers [12,13,14]. The randomness of TRNGs generally depends on the entropy source, sampling process, and postprocessing algorithms [17,18,19]. In order to design a good TRNG, the most suitable hardware parameters and postprocessing algorithms for entropy sources are required [16,17,18]. The design of a new computer-controlled platform to generate ADC-based true random numbers is explained in four subparts: entropy source, microcontroller controlled data collection card, 0–5 V voltage level converter circuit for ADC, and computer interface program.

A new computer-controlled platform for ADC-based TRNG designs

Chaos-based TRNG design

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Conclusion

Result