Apparatus and method for generating random numbers
US8768992B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 19, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jul 1, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 20, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F7/588
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Random number generation apparatus (2) is described that comprises a threshold detector (4) and an electrical noise generator (6). The electrical noise generator (6) has at least two channels (8a-8d) and each channel is arranged to generate an electrical noise signal. The threshold detector (4), which may comprise a digital input-output (DIO) card, is arranged to periodically compare this electrical noise signal with a threshold and to provide a binary data output that indicates whether the threshold has been exceeded. Each channel of the electrical noise generator comprises at least two amplifiers (10a-10c) electrically connected in series that preferably provide a gain of 50,000 or more. Use of the random number generation apparatus (2) for quantum cryptography applications is also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.