Entropy Storage Ring for Self-Timed Logic Random Number Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current networking applications face challenges in generating high-quality random numbers on network flow processor integrated circuits, which are crucial for encryption and other cryptographic processes.
Innovation Solution
A network flow processor integrated circuit with a transactional memory that includes a self-timed logic entropy bit stream generator (STLEBSG), an entropy bit stream signal storage ring block, and a pseudo-random number generator (PRNG), which uses a self-timed logic incrementer and linear feedback shift register (LFSR) to generate and store random numbers efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the STLEBSG continuously generates entropy bit streams, then random number quality is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The entropy bit stream is generated in advance and stored in the signal storage ring before it is needed for random number generation. This preliminary generation and storage of entropy allows the STLEBSG to be turned off later, eliminating continuous power consumption while ensuring high-quality random numbers are available when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal storage ring acts as an intermediary between the STLEBSG and the PRNG. It stores the entropy bit stream and allows the PRNG to continue generating random numbers using stored entropy even after the STLEBSG has stopped generating new entropy, thus decoupling the power-consuming entropy generation from the random number generation process.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the STLEBSG stops generating bit streams to reduce power consumption, then power usage decreases, but random number generation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The signal storage ring serves as a buffer that decouples the STLEBSG from the PRNG. When the STLEBSG stops generating entropy to save power, the PRNG can continue operating by consuming entropy from the stored bit stream in the signal storage ring, maintaining random number generation capability without continuous power consumption from the entropy source.
Solution Approach 2:
Entropy is generated and stored in advance in the signal storage ring, creating a reservoir of randomness that can be drawn upon later. This allows the system to stop entropy generation temporarily while maintaining the ability to generate random numbers using the pre-stored entropy.
3Ease of operation
If a command is sent across the bus to control the STLEBSG, then operation control is improved, but bus transaction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The command is divided into two separate transactions: first the opcode is sent to initiate the operation, then the value parameter is sent separately. This segmentation allows the critical operation initiation to proceed quickly while the parameter transmission follows, optimizing the timing for control operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A Self-Timed Logic Entropy Bit Stream Generator (STLEBSG) outputs a bit stream having non-deterministic entropy. The bit stream is supplied onto an input of a signal storage ring so that entropy of the bit stream is then stored in the ring as the bit stream circulates in the ring. Depending on the configuration of the ring, the bit stream as it circulates undergoes permutations, but the signal storage ring nonetheless stores the entropy of the injected bit stream. In one example, the STLEBSG is disabled and the bit stream is no longer supplied to the ring, but the ring continues to circulate and stores entropy of the original bit stream. With the STLEBSG disabled, a signal output from the ring is used to generate one or more random numbers.