Delay-based true random number generator in sub-nanomillimeter iot devices

Abstract

True Random Number Generators (TRNGs) use physical phenomenon as their source of randomness. In electronics, one of the most popular structures to build a TRNG is constructed based on the circuits that form propagation delays, such as a ring oscillator, shift register, and routing paths. This type of TRNG has been well-researched within the current technology of electronics. However, in the future, where electronics will use sub-nano millimeter (nm) technology, the components become smaller and work on near-threshold voltage (NTV). This condition has an effect on the timing-critical circuit, as the distribution of the process variation becomes non-gaussian. Therefore, there is an urge to assess the behavior of the current delay-based TRNG system in sub-nm technology. In this paper, a model of TRNG implementation in sub-nm technology was created through the use of a specific Look-Up Table (LUT) in the Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), known as SRL16E. The characterization of the TRNG was presented and it shows a promising result, in that the delay-based TRNG will work properly, with some constraints in sub-nm technology.