Source-independent quantum random number generators with integrated silicon photonics
Yongqiang Du, Xin Hua, Zhengeng Zhao, Xiaoran Sun, Zhenrong Zhang, Xi Xiao, Kejin Wei
Abstract
Random numbers play a crucial role in numerous scientific applications. Source-independent quantum random number generators (SI-QRNGs) can offer true randomness by leveraging the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, eliminating the need for a trusted source. Silicon photonics demonstrates significant promise for QRNG due to its benefits in miniaturization, cost-effective device manufacturing, and compatibility with CMOS microelectronics. This study experimentally demonstrates a silicon-based discrete variable SI-QRNG. Our SI-QRNG system achieves a low error rate of only 0.21%, thanks to the inherent stability of the silicon-based decoder chip and its excellent polarization extinction ratio. Additionally, by using a laser with a higher repetition rate and a robust simulation model, we achieve the highest quantum random number generation rate of 9.49 Mbits per second. Our research paves the way for integrated SI-QRNGs, providing a cost-effective and robust secure QRNG module for next-generation communications. Source-independent quantum random number generators (SI-QRNGs), leveraging the intrinsic randomness of quantum physics, generate secure random sequences without relying on trusted sources. In this study, the authors developed a cost-effective SI-QRNG based on a silicon photonic integrated platform, capable of achieving a maximum generation rate of 9.49 Mbps.