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arXiv · 1410.2790

A self-testing quantum random number generator

Tommaso Lunghi·Jonatan Bohr Brask·Charles Ci Wen Lim·Quentin Lavigne·Joseph Bowles·Anthony Martin·Hugo Zbinden·Nicolas Brunner
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Abstract

The generation of random numbers is a task of paramount importance in modern science. A central problem for both classical and quantum randomness generation is to estimate the entropy of the data generated by a given device. Here we present a protocol for self-testing quantum random number generation, in which the user can monitor the entropy in real-time. Based on a few general assumptions, our protocol guarantees continuous generation of high quality randomness, without the need for a detailed characterization of the devices. Using a fully optical setup, we implement our protocol and illustrate its self-testing capacity. Our work thus provides a practical approach to quantum randomness generation in a scenario of trusted but error-prone devices.

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Tommaso Lunghi, Jonatan Bohr Brask, Charles Ci Wen Lim, Quentin Lavigne, Joseph Bowles, Anthony Martin, Hugo Zbinden, Nicolas Brunner. 2016-01-18. A self-testing quantum random number generator. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.114.150501

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