Source-independent quantum random number generators with integrated silicon photonics

• DOI: 10.1038/s42005-024-01917-x
• Publication Date: 2025-01-03T13:33:54Z
• Authors: Yongqiang Du; Xin Hua; Zhengeng Zhao; Xiaoran Sun; Zhenrong Zhang; Xi Xiao; Kejin Wei
• Keywords: QB460-466; Quantum Physics; Physics; QC1-999; 0103 physical sciences; FOS: Physical sciences; Astrophysics; Quantum Physics (quant-ph)

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 mechanics, eliminating need for trusted source. Silicon photonics demonstrates significant promise QRNG due to its benefits miniaturization, cost-effective device manufacturing, and compatibility with CMOS microelectronics. This study experimentally silicon-based discrete variable SI-QRNG. Our SI-QRNG system achieves low error rate only 0.21%, thanks inherent stability decoder chip excellent polarization extinction ratio. Additionally, using laser higher repetition robust simulation model, we achieve highest generation 9.49 Mbits per second. research paves way integrated SI-QRNGs, providing secure module next-generation communications. (SI-QRNGs), intrinsic physics, generate sequences without relying on sources. In this study, authors developed based silicon photonic platform, capable achieving maximum Mbps.