Using Lasers To Generate Random Numbers Faster

Pranav writes "Using semiconductor lasers, scientists from Takushoku University, Saitama University, and NTT Corporation achieved random number rates of up to 1.7 gigabits per second, which is about 10 times higher than the second-best rate, produced using a physical phenomenon. Future work may center on devising laser schemes that can achieving rates as high as 10 Gbps."

Comments

Quantum Choas

[physburn]

I'm busy trying to get my head around, why partially reflecting laser light back into the laser, induces a chaotic signal. It doesn't seem right, there's a laser frequency and two reflection distances, (remember lasers have a mirror at each end). It doesn't seem complex enough to be chaotic.

If it is chaotic and you believe in the Everett Interpretation, they've just produced the worlds fastest world splitter.

Re:A Solution in Search of a Problem

[Yetihehe]

From your link to wikipedia:

Unlike Blum Blum Shub, the algorithm in its native form is not suitable for cryptography. Observing a sufficient number of iterates (624 in the case of MT19937) allows one to predict all future iterates.

So MT may be good enough for computational physicists, but not for strong cryptography.

Re:Random generator needed in semi-conductors

[ishmalius]

Reverse-biased zener diodes make an excellent noise source for true physical randomness. You want quantum quality? Use a tunnel diode. And some military radios use FM discriminator or PLL noise as a generator for crypto.

Re:A Solution in Search of a Problem

[Vellmont]

My research team used it a lot and it's nearly impossible without a good RNG.

The question on my mind (and on many others I'm guessing) is why you would need a true RNG, and not a pseudo RNG.