Abstract: A true random number generator is presented that includes a CMOS matrix detector with a top surface. A shell is positioned over the top surface, and the shell includes a radiation source and a luminophore or scintillator constructed to emit photons towards the top surface when the luminophore or scintillator is struck by electrons from the radioactive decay of the source of the radiation. The CMOS detector matrix is constructed to detect the photons emitted from the luminophore or scintillator and to produce a signal for the detected photons. The signal is communicated to a processor that produces true random numbers based on the signal from the detected photons.

Abstract: A method for electro-depositing a radioactive material onto a metal substrate is disclosed. This is particularly well-suited for true random number generators. The method includes (a) at least partially masking the metal substrate to expose a metallic surface on the metal substrate; (b) connecting the metal substrate to a cathode of a current source; (c) submersing the exposed metallic surface into a solution containing radioactive metal ions, wherein the solution is connected to an anode of the current source; (d) removing the exposed metallic surface from the solution; (e) removing the solution from the exposed metallic surface; (f) measuring the amount of radioactivity emitted from the exposed metallic surface; and (g) repeating steps (c) through (f) until the amount of radioactivity measured in step (f) is stabilized relative to a previous measurement.

Abstract: A method for correcting spatially variable electron flux in a true random number generator (TRNG) is presented. The TRNG comprises a radioactive source and an array of detectors, and the method comprises: (a) segmenting the array of detectors into a plurality of groups; (b) for each group: (1) detecting via multiple detectors an electron signal from the decay of the radioactive source; (2) determining a number of detections based on the detection of step (b)(1); (3) determining a group median count based on the number of detections; (4) comparing the group median count to either (A) a detection count from a single detector within the group, or (B) a detection count from multiple detectors within the group; (5) based on the comparison, assigning a value to a string of values; and (c) determining a true random number based on the string of values. A TRNG implementing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A true random number generator (TRNG) is disclosed that includes an enclosure. The enclosure encloses a radioactive source defining a radioactive source surface and a cavity separating the radioactive source from an array of cells that define an array surface with an edge. Each cell in the array comprises a detector constructed to detect electrons within the cavity from the decay of the radioactive source and constructed to produce a signal for the detected energy. A projection of the radioactive source surface onto the array surface extends beyond the edge and encompasses the array surface.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for manufacturing a true random number generator (TRNG), wherein the TRNG includes a cavity filled with tritium and an electronic sensor constructed to detect energy from the decay of the tritium. One method includes (a) forming the cavity by bonding an enclosing structure to the sensor or adjacent to the sensor such that a portion of the sensor forms an inner surface of the cavity, (b) injecting the tritium gas into the cavity via one or more ports in the enclosing structure, and (c) sealing the one or more ports. Another method includes (a) applying a drop of tritiated water or tritiated gel to a surface of the electronic sensor, and (b) applying epoxy over the drop of tritiated water or tritiated gel (prior to step (b), the surface of the electronic sensor may be cooled sufficiently to freeze the drop of tritiated water or tritiated gel).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a true random number generator (TRNG). The TRNG includes an enclosure defining a cavity and a cap covering the cavity and having a cap surface exposed to the cavity, the cap surface including radioactive nickel. An electronic sensor within a cavity detects electrons from the decay of the nickel and produces a signal for the detected energy. An amplifier is connected to the sensor and constructed to amplify the signal and feeds the signal to a filter. A processor connected to the filter generates a true random number based on the signal. This TRNG may be formed on an integrated circuit.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a true random number generator (TRNG). The TRNG includes an enclosure defining a cavity and a cap covering the cavity and having a cap surface exposed to the cavity, the cap surface including radioactive nickel. An electronic sensor within a cavity detects electrons from the decay of the nickel and produces a signal for the detected energy. An amplifier is connected to the sensor and is constructed to amplify the signal and then feeds the signal to a filter. A processor connected to the filter generates a true random number based on the signal. This TRNG may be formed on an integrated circuit.