Method and system for generating a cryptographically random number stream

摘要

A method and system for generating a cryptographically random number stream ( 100 ) is provided. A system includes a module ( 102 ) configured to provide at least two statistically random number streams ( 106 ) and ( 108 ) and an oscillator ( 104 ) operably coupled to the module ( 102 ). The oscillator ( 104 ) is configured to operate at a frequency which varies in response to physically unpredictable events and to select a current number from one of the at least two statistically random number streams ( 106 ) and ( 108 ) based on the oscillator's state. A process includes several steps. At least two statistically random number streams are provided ( 138 ). A current number is selected ( 140 ) from one of the at least two statistically random number streams based on the state of an oscillator operating at a frequency which varies in response to physically unpredictable events. The step of selecting ( 140 ) is repeated ( 142 ) to create the cryptographically random number stream. The number streams can be carried by signals ( 132 ), ( 134 ), and ( 136 ). An apparatus for performing the process is also disclosed.