Photonic Quantum Entropy Source

Overview

The photonic quantum entropy source is the front-end of the QuantaSE-Q quantum random number generator. It uses vacuum-fluctuation balanced-homodyne detection (primary) or laser phase-noise (alternative) on the GlobalFoundries Fotonix/45SPCLO photonic platform. The optical path combines a CW laser, MMI beamsplitter, and balanced Ge-on-Si photodiodes with an on-die 45 nm TIA/ADC. Entropy is traceable to a quantum observable; a live quantum-to-classical noise ratio bounds min-entropy.

Key Features

Vacuum-fluctuation balanced-homodyne detection
GF Fotonix/45SPCLO photonic platform
CW laser + MMI beamsplitter + balanced Ge-on-Si photodiodes
On-die 45 nm TIA/ADC
Live min-entropy bound via quantum observable

Benefits

True quantum entropy source (not pseudo-random)
Entropy provably traceable to quantum physics
Chip-scale integration on silicon photonics

Standards & Verification

Standards Compliance: NIST SP 800-90B (entropy source requirements)

Verification: Mixed-signal/photonic (not RTL). Entropy characterization in progress.

"Verified" means RTL byte-exact against official test vectors. It does not imply FIPS 140-3 certification or foundry sign-off.

Availability & Deliverables

In Design In Design (verified soft IP).

Standard deliverables:

Synthesizable SystemVerilog RTL
Self-checking testbench(es)
Python golden reference model
cocotb regression
Synthesis scripts
Integration/user guide

Firm/hard IP (hardened netlist for a target node) available on foundry enablement.

Photonic Quantum Entropy Source.