Gaussian random number generator: Implemented in FPGA for quantum key distribution

• Published in: International journal of numerical modelling Vol. 32; no. 3
• Main Authors: Hu, Yue, Wu, Yan, Chen, Yi, Wan, Guo Chun, Tong, Mei Song
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bognor Regis Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.05.2019
• Subjects: Algorithms; Communication; Communications systems; Cybersecurity; Field programmable gate arrays; field‐programmable gate array; Gaussian random numbers; High speed; Null hypothesis; Numbers; numerical modeling; Polarization; Quantum cryptography; quantum key distribution; Random numbers
• ISSN: 0894-3370; 1099-1204
• DOI: 10.1002/jnm.2554

Quantum key distribution is the process of using quantum communication to establish a shared key between two parties. It has been demonstrated the unconditional security and effective communication of quantum communication system can be guaranteed by an excellent Gaussian random number (GRN) generator with high speed and an extended random period. In this paper, we propose to construct the Gaussian random number generator by using field‐programmable gate array (FPGA), which is able to process large data in high speed. We also compare three algorithms of GRN generation: Box‐Muller algorithm, polarization decision algorithm, and central limit algorithm. We demonstrate that the polarization decision algorithm implemented in FPGA requires less computing resources and also produces a high‐quality GRN through the null hypothesis test.