All-Optical Quantum Random Bit Generation from Intrinsically Binary Phase of Parametric Oscillators

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel all-optical quantum random number generator using twin degenerate optical parametric oscillators, leveraging the intrinsic binary phase states for high-speed, on-chip randomness without post-processing.

Contribution

The authors demonstrate a new all-optical quantum RNG based on phase states of twin OPOs, eliminating the need for photodetection as part of the randomness process.

Findings

Outcome is statistically random with 99% confidence

Technique is suitable for high-speed, on-chip applications

No post-processing required for the generated bits

Abstract

True random number generators (RNGs) are desirable for applications ranging from cryptogra- phy to computer simulations. Quantum phenomena prove to be attractive for physical RNGs due to their fundamental randomness and immunity to attack [1]- [5]. Optical parametric down conversion is an essential element in most quantum optical experiments including optical squeezing [9], and generation of entangled photons [10]. In an optical parametric oscillator (OPO), photons generated through spontaneous down conversion of the pump initiate the oscillation in the absence of other inputs [11, 12]. This quantum process is the dominant effect during the oscillation build-up, leading to selection of one of the two possible phase states above threshold in a degenerate OPO [13]. Building on this, we demonstrate a novel all-optical quantum RNG in which the photodetection is not a part of the random process, and no post processing is required for the generated bit sequence. We implement a synchronously pumped twin degenerate OPO, which comprises two identical independent OPOs in a single cavity, and measure the relative phase states of the OPO outputs above threshold as a bit value. We show that the outcome is statistically random with 99% confidence. With the use of micro- and nanoscale OPO resonators, this technique offers a promise for simple, robust, and high-speed on-chip all-optical quantum random number generators.