White Gaussian Noise Generation with a Vacuum State Quantum Entropy Source Chip

Abstract: White Gaussian noise (WGN) is widely used in communication system testing, physical modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, and electronic countermeasures. WGN generation relies heavily on random numbers. In this work, we present an implementation of WGN generation utilizing a quantum entropy source chip for the first time. A photonic integrated chip based on the vacuum state scheme generates quantum random numbers at a real-time output rate of up to 6.4 Gbps. A hardware-based inversion method converts uniform quantum random numbers into Gaussian random numbers using the inverse cumulative distribution function. Subsequently, the WGN signal is generated through a digital-to-analog converter and amplifiers. The WGN generator is characterized by a bandwidth of 230 MHz, a crest factor as high as 6.2, and an adjustable peak-to-peak range of 2.5 V. This work introduces a novel approach to WGN generation with information-theory provable quantum random numbers to enhance system security.