Abstract:
A method for generating a random number sequence whose randomness properties are determined a priori , comprises the steps of defining a parametric map; calculating, in function of parameters of the map, the entropy and the Lyapunov exponent of random number sequences obtainable using the parametric map; identifying at least a set of values of parameters for which the entropy and the Lyapunov exponent are positive numbers the map has no attracting point; assigning a pre-established value as a first feedback value and carrying out cyclically the following steps for generating a random number sequence:
(i) determining said parameters inside the set as the numerical values of respective physical quantities; (ii) outputting a random number, according to said map with the parameters and the assigned feedback value; (iii) assigning as new feedback value said output random number.
A circuit, preferably realized using a switched current technique, implements the method of the invention for generating a random bit sequence.