Quantum random number generator using a microresonator-based Kerr oscillator.

Area of Science:

• Quantum optics
• Integrated photonics
• Nonlinear optics

Background:

• Quantum random number generators (QRNGs) are crucial for secure communication and cryptography.
• Existing QRNGs face challenges in terms of speed, size, and post-processing requirements.
• Optical parametric oscillators offer a promising platform for high-quality random number generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate an all-optical quantum random number generator (QRNG) utilizing a silicon nitride microresonator.
• To achieve high-speed random number generation without the need for post-processing.
• To explore the potential for chip-scale integration of QRNG devices.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a dual-pumped degenerate optical parametric oscillator in a silicon nitride microresonator.
• Employed parametric four-wave mixing in the normal group-velocity dispersion regime with two nondegenerate pumps.
• Verified the randomness of the generated numbers using the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Statistical Test Suite.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated random numbers at a rate of 2 MHz.
• Demonstrated the frequency-degenerate bi-phase state output.
• Confirmed the high quality and randomness of the generated numbers through rigorous statistical testing.

Conclusions:

• The developed all-optical QRNG scheme is efficient and reliable.
• The use of silicon nitride microresonators enables compact and scalable designs.
• This technology holds significant potential for future gigahertz-rate, chip-scale QRNGs with minimal post-processing.