Proposal for a quantum random number generator using coherent light and a non-classical observable

Journal Article · Mon Mar 14 00:00:00 EDT 2022 · Journal of the Optical Society of America. Part B, Optical Physics

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1364/JOSAB.441210· OSTI ID:1854414

Gerry, Christopher C.; Birrittella, Richard J. ; Alsing, Paul M.; Hossameldin, Amr ; Eaton, Miller ; Pfister, Olivier

The prototype quantum random number (random bit) generator (QRNG) consists of one photon at a time falling on a 50:50 beam splitter followed by random detection in one or the other output beams due to the irreducible probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics. Due to the difficulties in producing single photons on demand, in practice, pulses of weak coherent (laser) light are used. In this paper, we take a different approach, one that uses moderate coherent light. It is shown that a QRNG can be implemented by performing photon-number parity measurements. For moderate coherent light, the probabilities of obtaining even or odd parity in photon counts are 0.5 each. Photon counting with single-photon resolution can be performed through use of a cascade of beam splitters and single-photon detectors, as was done recently in a photon-number parity-based interferometry experiment involving coherent light. We highlight the point that unlike most quantum-based random number generators, our proposal does not require the use of classical de-biasing algorithms or post-processing of the generated bit sequence.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• Grant/Contract Number: LDRD21-17
• OSTI ID: 1854414
• Journal Information: Journal of the Optical Society of America. Part B, Optical Physics, Journal Name: Journal of the Optical Society of America. Part B, Optical Physics Vol. 39 Journal Issue: 4; ISSN 0740-3224
• Publisher: Optical Society of America
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English