| 摘要 |
A data storage device having mediametric properties used as a source of data for keys used in cryptoprocessing. The device may suitably include a memory array such as an EPROM or EEPROM comprising a plurality of memory cells, each cell containing a level of trapped charges. The levels of trapped charges are difficult or impossible to set to a predefined value, but may be read precisely once they are established. Moreover, the levels of cells are difficult or impossible to read unless provisions are made to allow them to be read. These factors establish the levels of trapped charges as secure and unpredictable sources of data. When it is desired to generate cryptoprocessing keys, the levels of trapped charges are read from selected cells (510), and may suitably be converted to numerical data for convenience in processing. The data thus retrieved is used to produce cryptoprocessing keys (520), which are then used for cryptoprocessing of data. The exact levels of charges in a memory array such as an EPROM or EEPROM is random, making this data suitable for easy and convenient generation of random numbers. When a random number is desired, data is written to selected cells of the memory array in order to establish random charge levels in the cells. The data is then retrieved from the selected cells and processed in order to yield a random number. |
