Ro-based PRNG: FPGA implementation and stochastic analysis

This paper deals with the use of Ring Oscillators (ROs) as pseudo random number generators (PRNG). The design, made for ALTERA Cyclone III ©, using low level primitives is explained. Two relevant characteristics of a PRNG are considered to validate the design: 1) the equiprobability of all possible outcomes and 2) the statistical independence of consecutive values. In this work these properties are measured via Information Theory Quantifiers. A dual entropy plane is used to represent the time series and easily visualize the results obtained with different configurations. The quality is also compared with other available PRNGs by means of the dual entropy plane. Our method constitutes an effective reduction of the complete analysis made with test suites like DIEHARD or NIST.