Semi-device-independent quantum random number generator with a broadband squeezed state of light

Abstract

Random numbers are a basic ingredient of simulation algorithms and cryptography, and play a significant part in computer simulation and information processing. One prominent feature of a squeezed light is its lower fluctuation and more randomness in a pair of orthogonal oriented quadratures, thus it prompts a significant application in not only quantum information and quantum precision measurement but also an excellent entropy source for true random number generation. Here we report a generation of a high-efficiency semi-device-independent quantum random number based on a broadband squeezed light, where a reliable randomness source is unnecessary and a noisy local oscillator is allowed for homodyne detection. The equivalent generation of private random bits is at a rate of 580.7 Mbps. In addition, the use of squeezed light at 1.3 μm enables the transmission of entropy sources and local oscillators at the metropolitan scale, thus expanding the potential applications of quantum random number generators based on non-classical state of light.