Abstract
This work presents new techniques to produce true random bits by exploiting single photon time of arrival. Two FPGA-based QRNG devices are presented: Randy which uses one discrete SPAD and LinoSPAD which uses a CMOS SPAD array, along with a time-to-digital converter (TDC). Post-processing procedures are explained in order to extract randomness taking care of SPAD and TDC non-idealities. These procedures are based on the application of Peres [Y. Peres, Ann. Statist.20, 590 (1992)] and Zhou-Bruk [H. Zhou and J. Bruck, arXiv:1209.0726 (2012)] extraction algorithms. Achieved generation rates are 1.8 Mbit/s for Randy device and 310 Mbit/s for LinoSPAD device. Randy QRNG also features a real time procedure which was used for the realization of fundamental tests of physics.
Highlights
In recent years, there has been widespread interest in random number generators based on physical processes of quantum nature
Two quantum random number generator (QRNG) devices based on the field programmable gate array (FPGA) technology are presented: Randy, which uses one discrete single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD), and LinoSPAD, which uses a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) SPAD array, along with a time-to-digital converter (TDC)
As in the previous example, in the OdEven-QRNG a light source attenuated to a single-photon level illuminates a photomultiplier but in this case a counter enumerates the number of photons detected within a fixed time interval, τ, corresponding to the period of a sampling signal
Summary
There has been widespread interest in random number generators based on physical processes of quantum nature. Random number generation with just one detector is possible by exploiting time as an additional degree of freedom and by leveraging on the statistical features of the photon detection distribution. This could be done with the following procedure: time sampling of the photon detector with a sampling rate almost equal to the photon rate; application of dedicated generation protocols; and application of dedicated unbiasing algorithms.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
