Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Log inSign up
Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Blog
Job Board
Q3AS

© 2026 Aqora Quantum S.A.S.

TermsPrivacyLegal Notice

arXiv:1507.02059 · Journal of the Optical Society of America B

Minimalist design of a robust real-time quantum random number generator

Konstantin Kravtsov, I. V. Radchenko, S. P. Kulik, S. N. Molotkov

Published Jul 24, 2015• 11 citations
arXivHTMLPDF

Abstract

We present a simple and robust construction of a real-time quantum random number generator. Our minimalist approach ensures stable operation of the device as well as its simple and straightforward hardware implementation as a stand-alone module. As a source of randomness the device uses measurements of time intervals between clicks of a single-photon detector. The obtained raw sequence is then filtered and processed by a deterministic randomness extractor, which is realized as a look-up table. This enables high-speed on-the-fly processing without the need of extensive computations. The overall performance of the device is around 1 random bit per detector click, resulting in 1.2 Mbit/s generation rate in our implementation.

DOI
10.1364/josab.32.001743

Related papers

Multiplexed Quantum Random Number Generation

Ben Haylock, Daniel Peace, Francesco Lenzini +2 more

Fast secure random number generation is essential for high-speed encrypted communication, and is the backbone of information security. Generation of truly random numbers depends on the intrinsic randomness of the process used and is usually limited by electronic bandwidth and signal processing data rates. Here we use a multiplexing scheme to create a fast quantum random number generator structurally tailored to encryption for distributed computing, and high bit-rate data transfer. We use vacuum fluctuations measured by seven homodyne detectors as quantum randomness sources, multiplexed using a single integrated optical device. We obtain a real-time random number generation rate of 3.08 Gbit/s, from only 27.5 MHz of sampled detector bandwidth. Furthermore, we take advantage of the multiplexed nature of our system to demonstrate an unseeded strong extractor with a generation rate of 26 Mbit/s.

arXiv:1801.06926•Quantum•May 13, 2019•41 citations

A Simple and Low-Cost Quantum Random Number Generator Based on Coherent States

Phuc-La Huu, Kien-Vu Van

High-speed QRNG devices typically involve high costs and complex designs, limiting their accessibility. However, in many practical applications, simpler, low-cost QRNG devices are preferred due to their ability to provide easily deployable, cost-effective solutions that meet basic randomness requirements in environments where speed and complexity are not critical. This paper presents a quantum random number generator (QRNG) that uses the uncertainty in the number of photons in a stimulated emission state as a quantum noise source. This design allows for real-time random number generation using low-cost components. The final random bit sequences generated by our QRNG successfully pass all NIST SP800-22 and AIS31 statistical tests with the post-processing stage, demonstrating its reliability and practicality.

International Conference on Cryptography and Information Security (VCRIS)•Dec 3, 2024•0 citations

Modulator-free, self-testing quantum random number generator

Ana Blázquez, Fadri Grünenfelder, Anthony Martin +3 more

Quantum random number generators (QRNGs) use the inherent unpredictability of quantum mechanics to generate true randomness, as opposed to classical random number generators. However, ensuring the authenticity of this randomness still requires robust verification. Self-testing QRNGs address this need by enabling the validation of the randomness produced based on the observed data from the experiment while requiring few assumptions. In this work, we present a practical, self-testing QRNG designed to operate with an untrusted measurement device and a partially characterized source, allowing the user to check the adequate functioning of the setup in real time. Our experiment yields a rate of certified random bits of 450 kbps.

arXiv:2507.12346•EPJ Quantum Technology•Mar 24, 2026•0 citations

A hybrid-type quantum random number generator

Haiqiang Ma, Zhu Wu, Kejin Wei +2 more

This paper proposes a well-performing hybrid-type truly quantum random number generator based on the time interval between two independent single-photon detection signals, which is practical and intuitive, and generates the initial random number sources from a combination of multiple existing random number sources. A time-to-amplitude converter and multichannel analyzer are used for qualitative analysis to demonstrate that each and every step is random. Furthermore, a carefully designed data acquisition system is used to obtain a high-quality random sequence. Our scheme is simple and proves that the random number bit rate can be dramatically increased to satisfy practical requirements.

Chinese Physics B•May 1, 2016•1 citation

Photon arrival time quantum random number generation

Michael A. Wayne, Evan R. Jeffrey, Gleb M. Akselrod +1 more

We present an efficient random number generator based on the randomness present in photon emission and detection. The interval between successive photons from a light source with Poissonian statistics is separated into individual time bins, which are then used to create several random bits per detection event. Using a single-photon counter and FPGA-based data processing allows for a cost-efficient and convenient implementation that outputs data at rates of roughly 40 Mbit s−1.

Journal of Modern Optics•Jan 27, 2009•135 citations

Quantum Random Number Generation within Idle Time Windows of Quantum Key Distribution

Salem F. Hegazy, M. Mosaad Allam, Salah S. A. Obayya +1 more

We present a quantum random number generator system that relies on precise time measurements of the intervals between random clicks of single photon detectors. These SPDs are embedded in a quantum key distribution system. During the QKD transfer's time window, the SPDs perform their usual function of measuring the photon state. Outside of this window, the SPDs are subjected to faint laser pulses that induce random clicks on the detectors. A Field Programmable Gate Array is employed to measure the time interval between these random clicks based on an internal 470 MHz clock. The FPGA then transmits a portion of the random measurement to a personal computer. The resulting sequence demonstrates a high degree of randomness, making it a reliable resource for randomness in the QKD process.

National Radio Science Conference•May 6, 2025•0 citations
We present a simple and robust construction of a real-time quantum random number generator. Our minimalist approach ensures stable operation of the device as well as its simple and straightforward hardware implementation as a stand-alone module. As a source of randomness the device uses measurements of time intervals between clicks of a single-photon detector. The obtained raw sequence is then filtered and processed by a deterministic randomness extractor, which is realized as a look-up table. This enables high-speed on-the-fly processing without the need of extensive computations. The overall performance of the device is around 1 random bit per detector click, resulting in 1.2 Mbit/s generation rate in our implementation.
Fast secure random number generation is essential for high-speed encrypted communication, and is the backbone of information security. Generation of truly random numbers depends on the intrinsic randomness of the process used and is usually limited by electronic bandwidth and signal processing data rates. Here we use a multiplexing scheme to create a fast quantum random number generator structurally tailored to encryption for distributed computing, and high bit-rate data transfer. We use vacuum fluctuations measured by seven homodyne detectors as quantum randomness sources, multiplexed using a single integrated optical device. We obtain a real-time random number generation rate of 3.08 Gbit/s, from only 27.5 MHz of sampled detector bandwidth. Furthermore, we take advantage of the multiplexed nature of our system to demonstrate an unseeded strong extractor with a generation rate of 26 Mbit/s.
High-speed QRNG devices typically involve high costs and complex designs, limiting their accessibility. However, in many practical applications, simpler, low-cost QRNG devices are preferred due to their ability to provide easily deployable, cost-effective solutions that meet basic randomness requirements in environments where speed and complexity are not critical. This paper presents a quantum random number generator (QRNG) that uses the uncertainty in the number of photons in a stimulated emission state as a quantum noise source. This design allows for real-time random number generation using low-cost components. The final random bit sequences generated by our QRNG successfully pass all NIST SP800-22 and AIS31 statistical tests with the post-processing stage, demonstrating its reliability and practicality.
Quantum random number generators (QRNGs) use the inherent unpredictability of quantum mechanics to generate true randomness, as opposed to classical random number generators. However, ensuring the authenticity of this randomness still requires robust verification. Self-testing QRNGs address this need by enabling the validation of the randomness produced based on the observed data from the experiment while requiring few assumptions. In this work, we present a practical, self-testing QRNG designed to operate with an untrusted measurement device and a partially characterized source, allowing the user to check the adequate functioning of the setup in real time. Our experiment yields a rate of certified random bits of 450 kbps.
This paper proposes a well-performing hybrid-type truly quantum random number generator based on the time interval between two independent single-photon detection signals, which is practical and intuitive, and generates the initial random number sources from a combination of multiple existing random number sources. A time-to-amplitude converter and multichannel analyzer are used for qualitative analysis to demonstrate that each and every step is random. Furthermore, a carefully designed data acquisition system is used to obtain a high-quality random sequence. Our scheme is simple and proves that the random number bit rate can be dramatically increased to satisfy practical requirements.
We present a quantum random number generator system that relies on precise time measurements of the intervals between random clicks of single photon detectors. These SPDs are embedded in a quantum key distribution system. During the QKD transfer's time window, the SPDs perform their usual function of measuring the photon state. Outside of this window, the SPDs are subjected to faint laser pulses that induce random clicks on the detectors. A Field Programmable Gate Array is employed to measure the time interval between these random clicks based on an internal 470 MHz clock. The FPGA then transmits a portion of the random measurement to a personal computer. The resulting sequence demonstrates a high degree of randomness, making it a reliable resource for randomness in the QKD process.