Title: A meta-level true random number generator

Authors: Bernhard Fechner, Andre Osterloh

Addresses: Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Parallel Computing and VLSI Group, University of Hagen, Universitatsstrasse 1, 58084 Hagen, Germany. ' BTC AG, Escherweg 5, 26121 Oldenburg, Germany

Abstract: True random number generators (TRNGs) are extensively used in cryptography, simulations and statistics. In this work, we introduce, extend and analyse the concept of the randomised bit cell (RBC), introducing a second meta-level of randomisation, being able to simultaneously produce random numbers and detect active non-intrusive attacks. The concept is extended by using a corrector. Meta-stability is one way to generate true random numbers. By using electromagnetic radiation, a flip-flop (ff) in a meta-stable state can be manipulated to a known state. We clarify and comprehend open issues of meta-stable ffs such as power consumption and electromagnetic field strength. The experimental comparison though a software simulation with a standard TRNG yields a 17.69 times better distribution of zeros and ones while the TRNGs are under attack at the expense of a delay which is proportional to the quality of the random source.

Keywords: meta-level; true random number generators; TRNG; correctors; cryptography; simulation; statistics; randomised bit cells; RBC; attack detection; random numbers; active non-intrusive attacks; power consumption; electromagnetic field strength.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCCBS.2010.031719

International Journal of Critical Computer-Based Systems, 2010 Vol.1 No.1/2/3, pp.267 - 279

Published online: 21 Feb 2010 *

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