Note: A 10 Gbps real-time post-processing free physical random number generator chip.

Area of Science:

• Quantum Cryptography
• Integrated Circuit Design
• Information Security

Background:

• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems require high-speed, compact, and power-efficient random number generators for secure key distribution.
• Existing solutions may not meet the stringent demands of next-generation QKD protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a high-performance Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) for random number generation tailored for QKD systems.
• To achieve a data rate of 10 Gbps with a small form factor and low power consumption.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel random number generator ASIC, named TRNG2016.
• Integration of 10 independent physical random number generation channels.
• Utilizing a 6 mm × 6 mm QFN48 package for miniaturization.

Main Results:

• The TRNG2016 ASIC achieves a data rate of 10 Gbps.
• Each of the 10 channels operates independently at frequencies up to 1 Gbps.
• Generated random numbers successfully pass NIST statistical tests without post-processing.

Conclusions:

• The TRNG2016 ASIC provides a robust solution for high-speed random number generation in QKD.
• Its compact size, low power consumption (773 mW at full load), and high data rate make it ideal for QKD system integration.