Parity-based, bias-free optical quantum random number generation with min-entropy estimation

TL;DR

This paper presents a method for generating bias-free, high-quality quantum random bits from polarization-entangled photons, verified by statistical tests and nonclassicality measures, with a practical rate of 13 bits/sec.

Contribution

It introduces a parity-based quantum random number generator that does not require calibration or postprocessing, with concurrent nonclassicality verification and min-entropy estimation.

Findings

Sequences are bias-free and pass NIST randomness tests.

Generated sequences are Borel normal without calibration.

Achieved bit rate of approximately 13 bits/sec.

Abstract

We describe the generation of sequences of random bits from the parity of photon counts produced by polarization measurements on a polarization-entangled state. The resulting sequences are bias free, pass the applicable tests in the NIST battery of statistical randomness tests, and are shown to be Borel normal, without the need for experimental calibration stages or postprocessing of the output. Because the photon counts are produced in the course of a measurement of the violation of the Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt inequality, we are able to concurrently verify the nonclassical nature of the photon statistics and estimate a lower bound on the min-entropy of the bit-generating source. The rate of bit production in our experiment is around 13 bits/s.