Parallel real-time quantum random number generator

Quantum random-number generation exploits inherent randomness of quantum mechanical processes and measurements. Real-time generation rate of quantum random numbers is usually limited by electronic bandwidth and data processing rate in practice. Here we use a multiplexing scheme to create a fast real-time quantum random number generator based on continuous variable vacuum fluctuations. Multiple sideband frequency modes of quantum vacuum state within a homodyne detection bandwidth are concurrently extracted as randomness entropy source, and parallelly post-processed based on Toeplitz-hashing extractors in one FPGA. Cumulative generation rate of 6 Gbits/s is achieved. The system relies on optoelectronic components and circuits that could be integrated in a compact, economical package.