Volatile RAM Random Number Generator Initialization Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pseudo random number generators are vulnerable to prediction and attack due to the determinability of their sequences, especially when the starting value is known, which can compromise security applications.
Innovation Solution
A circuit arrangement and method utilizing a volatile random access memory to generate an unknown starting value by decoupling the memory from power supply, causing bit inversion and increasing randomness, which is then used to initialize a pseudo random number generator, ensuring unpredictability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a pseudo random number generator is used to generate random number sequences, then the complexity of the circuit is reduced compared to genuine random number generators, but the security is compromised because the sequences become predictable if the starting value is known
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by decoupling the power supply to the volatile memory before reading the starting value. This ensures that the memory contents have already been randomized through bit inversion during the power-off period, preventing any possibility of prediction even if the attacker has advance knowledge of the system configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The volatile memory serves as an intermediary between the power supply and the pseudo random number generator. It temporarily stores and randomizes the starting value through power decoupling, acting as a buffer that prevents direct determination of the starting value while maintaining the simplicity of the pseudo random number generation algorithm.
2Reliability
If the power supply to volatile memory is decoupled to randomize bit values, then the unpredictability of the starting value is improved, but the time required for initialization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by repeatedly decoupling and recoupling the power supply to the volatile memory multiple times before reading the starting value. This periodic power cycling ensures sufficient randomization of bit values through multiple inversion cycles, guaranteeing high unpredictability while keeping each individual decoupling period short.
3Reliability
If genuine random number generators are used to generate starting values, then the randomness quality is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase due to required analog circuit elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/analog system of genuine random number generators with a digital approach using volatile memory and power decoupling. Instead of using analog circuit elements that require physical random processes, the system uses digital memory bits that are randomized through controlled power interruption, achieving genuine randomness with purely digital components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a secure and unpredictable starting value for pseudo random number generators, preventing prediction and enhancing security by leveraging the volatility of the memory to create a random basis for the generator.
Implementation Method 1
a volatile random access memory (1), wherein information is stored in at least one area (15) of the volatile random access memory (1)
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit arrangement for initializing a random number generator includes a volatile random access memory and an access device for storing and reading information in the random access memory. The information is read out from at least one area of the random access memory as a starting value or read out and transformed into a starting value. Furthermore, the circuit arrangement includes a switching device which is coupled to the access device and decouples the random access memory for a period of time from a supply voltage or a refresh signal. The random number generator is coupled to the access device and generates a random number sequence based on the starting value provided by the access device.