Elmos and ID Quantique develop smallest quantum random number generator solution

Elmos Semiconductor SE and ID Quantique have partnered to develop the world’s smallest Quantum Random Number Generator solution. This innovative technology uses quantum principles to generate high-quality randomness, ensuring unparalleled cryptographic security. The partnership combines Elmos’ expertise in semiconductor development with ID Quantique’s leadership in quantum technologies.

The result is a 2mm x 2mm monolithic QRNG module, which delivers an exceptional cost-performance ratio with ultra-low power consumption and extremely short start-up time. This collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to innovation in cybersecurity, particularly in the face of increasing threats from artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The development is partly funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and the European Union, highlighting the importance of this technology for building a secure digital infrastructure.

Introduction to Quantum Random Number Generation

The increasing threat of cybersecurity breaches due to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing has highlighted the need for robust encryption methods. Traditional random number generation techniques, such as pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs) and true random number generators (TRNGs), are becoming increasingly vulnerable to attacks. To address this issue, Elmos Semiconductor SE and ID Quantique have collaborated on a strategic project to develop the world’s smallest monolithically integrated Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) solution. This innovative approach leverages quantum principles based on in-chip photoemission to generate high-quality randomness, ensuring unparalleled cryptographic security.

The partnership between Elmos and ID Quantique brings together the expertise of both companies, combining Elmos’ experience in high-quality semiconductor development and production with ID Quantique’s leadership in quantum technologies. The result is a 2mm x 2mm monolithic QRNG module, currently the world’s smallest Quantum Random Number Generator. Early prototypes have demonstrated an exceptional cost-performance ratio, with ultra-low power consumption and extremely short start-up times. This QRNG technology allows for scalable key rates. It will be made available as a stand-alone IC or through intellectual property (IP) licensing opportunities to broaden its application across various industries and CMOS technologies.

The development of this QRNG solution is particularly significant in the context of the “International Year of Quantum” in 2025. As quantum computing advances, the need for secure encryption methods that can withstand potential attacks from quantum computers becomes increasingly pressing. The collaboration between Elmos and ID Quantique underscores their commitment to innovation in the field of cybersecurity. It contributes to building a secure digital infrastructure for the automotive, communication, and IoT industries.

The QRNG technology developed by Elmos and ID Quantique has the potential to provide long-term security in the quantum era. By generating truly random numbers using quantum principles, this solution can ensure that cryptographic keys resist attacks from classical and quantum computers. This is particularly important for applications where high levels of security are required, such as in financial transactions, sensitive communication networks, and critical infrastructure.

Quantum Random Number Generation Principles

Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs) operate on the principles of quantum mechanics, which allows for generating truly random numbers. Unlike traditional PRNGs and TRNGs, QRNGs do not rely on algorithms or physical phenomena that can be predictable or reproducible. Instead, QRNGs harness the inherent randomness of quantum events, such as photon arrival times or quantum fluctuations, to generate random numbers.

The QRNG solution developed by Elmos and ID Quantique uses in-chip photoemission to generate random numbers. This process involves the emission of photons within the chip, which are then detected and used to generate random numbers. The resulting randomness is inherently robust against any type of cyber attack, including variations in temperature, supply voltage, light, physical pressure, or electromagnetic interference (EMI).

The use of quantum principles in QRNGs provides several advantages over traditional random number generation techniques. Firstly, QRNGs can generate truly random numbers, which are essential for cryptographic applications where predictability can compromise security. Secondly, QRNGs are resistant to attacks from both classical and quantum computers, ensuring long-term security in the quantum era.

The validation of QRNGs according to global standards and independent agencies is crucial to ensure their reliability and trustworthiness. ID Quantique’s quantum random number generator has been validated according to such standards, making it a reference in highly regulated and mission-critical industries such as security, encryption, critical infrastructure, and IoT.

Applications and Future Prospects

The QRNG solution developed by Elmos and ID Quantique has a wide range of applications across various industries. In the automotive sector, secure communication networks and cryptographic protocols are essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of vehicle systems. The use of QRNGs can provide an additional layer of security against potential cyber threats.

In the financial industry, secure encryption methods are critical for protecting sensitive transactions and data. QRNGs can provide a reliable source of random numbers for generating cryptographic keys, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of financial transactions.

The collaboration between Elmos and ID Quantique also has implications for the development of future quantum-safe crypto solutions. As quantum computing continues to advance, the need for secure encryption methods that can withstand potential attacks from quantum computers becomes increasingly pressing. The development of QRNGs is an important step towards achieving this goal, and the partnership between Elmos and ID Quantique demonstrates their commitment to innovation in the field of cybersecurity.

Conclusion

The development of the world’s smallest monolithically integrated Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) solution by Elmos Semiconductor SE and ID Quantique represents a significant milestone in the advancement of secure encryption methods. By leveraging quantum principles based on in-chip photoemission, this innovative approach generates high-quality randomness, ensuring unparalleled cryptographic security.

The partnership between Elmos and ID Quantique brings together the expertise of both companies, combining Elmos’ experience in high-quality semiconductor development and production with ID Quantique’s leadership in quantum technologies. The resulting QRNG solution has a wide range of applications across various industries, including automotive, financial, and IoT sectors.

As quantum computing continues to advance, the need for secure encryption methods that can withstand potential attacks from quantum computers becomes increasingly pressing. The development of QRNGs is an important step towards achieving this goal, and the collaboration between Elmos and ID Quantique demonstrates their commitment to innovation in the field of cybersecurity.