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The AlphaRNG device

Introducing AlphaRNG, our groundbreaking hardware random number generator, setting a new standard in its class with secure data communication over a USB interface. This ensures confidentiality, integrity, and protection against replay attacks.

We’ve also incorporated a cutting-edge approach to enhance reliability: hardware fault insertion. This technique introduces temporary signal faults in the noise sources to rigorously test the device’s behavior under failure conditions, providing unparalleled confidence in its performance.

AlphaRNG seamlessly integrates into software projects through our comprehensive software API implementation kit and utilities. Compact and lightweight, it fits conveniently inside your computer using an internal USB port. It also connects effortlessly to any external USB port for use over a secure communication channel.

The AlphaRNG software kit comes equipped with two built-in public keys: a 2048-bit RSA key and a 1024-bit RSA key. These keys enable you to establish secure connections with any AlphaRNG device. Additionally, each AlphaRNG is shipped with its own unique 2048-bit RSA public key, providing an extra layer of security for exclusive use with that specific device.

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Devices ship in 1–2 business days. For bulk orders (10+ units), please contact us directly. International buyers are responsible for import duties, taxes, and customs clearance upon delivery.

How AlphaRNG Generates Randomness

AlphaRNG generates a stream of truly random bytes by harnessing the inherent unpredictability of electrical noise. Here’s how it works:

  1. Noise Source: Two Zener diodes are operated in avalanche mode, producing independent streams of electrical noise.
  2. Amplification and Sampling: Each noise stream is amplified and then sampled, creating two separate raw byte-streams with uniformly distributed random values.
  3. Combination and De-biasing: These raw byte-streams are combined and then processed to remove any potential biases, resulting in the final high-quality entropy byte stream.
  4. API Access: The AlphaRNG software kit includes an API that provides access to data at various processing stages. This allows for in-depth evaluation or even the application of custom post-processing and conditioning algorithms.

Ensuring Top-Tier Randomness with AlphaRNG’s Quality Checks

AlphaRNG incorporates a robust quality assurance system to guarantee the integrity of its random numbers.

  • Embedded Health Check Test (HCT): Monitors the quality of each random noise source right after digitization. This test runs at startup and can be triggered anytime via the software API.
  • Hardware Fault Insertion: The HCT’s accuracy is validated using hardware fault insertion, a technique that intentionally introduces temporary signal faults in the noise sources. This verifies the device’s ability to detect and respond to potential failures.
  • Additional Tests: The ‘Repetition Count Test’ and the ‘Adaptive Proportion Test’ are also implemented. These tests run at startup and can be triggered on demand through the API.
  • Continuous Monitoring: The health check status is included in every data packet transmitted to the host computer, providing real-time feedback on the generator’s health.
  • Software-Side Verification: The ‘Repetition Count Test’ and the ‘Adaptive Proportion Test’ are continuously performed on the host computer using the AlphaRNG Software API. This double-checks the quality of random bytes received via the USB interface.

These comprehensive quality checks ensure that AlphaRNG consistently delivers high-quality, truly random numbers, giving you complete confidence in your applications.

Tech specs

More tech specs Data sheet

Available asymmetric ciphers RSA-2048, RSA-1024
Available symmetric ciphers AES-256-GCM, AES-128-GCM
Available MAC algorithms HMAC-SHA256, HMAC-SHA160, HMAC-MD5
Implemented statistical tests Start-up and on-demand ‘Repetition Count’ and ‘Adaptive Proportion’
Continuous statistical tests ‘Repetition Count’ and ‘Adaptive Proportion’ implemented in the software kit
Health check test (HCT) Start-up and on-demand Health diagnostics of both random noise sources
HCT validation Hardware fault insertion
Alternative Entropy Extractors SHA-256 and SHA-512 entropy extractors implemented in the software kit
Data download speed It varies depending on the cipher type and HMAC algorithm selected
Max data download speed Up to 199 Mbps when used in non-secure mode
Data download speed in MAC mode 30 Mbps when using HMAC-MD5, 19 Mbps when using HMAC-SHA160, 10 Mbps when using HMAC-SHA256
Data download speed in AES mode 5.2 Mbps when using AES-128-GCM, 4.6 Mbps when using AES-256-GCM
Data connectivity and control interface USB 2 high-speed interface with integrated EMI filtering and ESD protection
Random noise source Two independent circuits based on avalanche breakdown effect in reversed-biased Zener diodes
Device security Secure booting from an encrypted firmware image, device access and debugging disabled
Software Kit dependencies OpenSSL 1.1+
Power supply USB bus powered
Power consumption 220 mA in active mode, 90 mA when inactive
RoHS compliance All parts and materials are lead-free and RoHS compliant
Country of origin United States

Use cases

AlphaRNG can be used for a wide range of purposes:

  • Live entropy source for seeding a Deterministic Random Bit Generator (DRBG)
  • Accessing randomness over a secure data connection
  • Generation of cryptographic keys and nonces
  • Research (statistical sampling)
  • Computer simulations
  • Gaming servers

Statistical tests

The AlphaRNG device passes the following statistical test suites for measuring the quality of randomness: Dieharder, NIST, Rngtest, Ent, IID.

You can download sample test reports using links below:

Visual tests

A fast method to assess the quality of a random number generator (RNG) involves creating visual tests. The human brain is adept at identifying visual patterns, making this approach effective. The random steering wheel test serves as a valuable technique for visualizing randomness.

Device output samples

System requirements

  • Linux (x86, x64, ARM)
  • or FreeBSD 12/13/14
  • or macOS (Intel and M1 chips)
  • or 64 bit Windows 10/11, 64 bit Windows Server 2016/2019
  • USB 2.0 or 3.0 high-speed host/hub

Virtual machine compatibility

The AlphaRNG device has been tested with the following virtual machine software:

  • VMware ESXi 6.7.0
  • VMware Workstation 15 Player
  • Oracle VirtualBox 6.1/7.0
  • Parallels Desktop for Mac (Intel & ARM)

Warranty & Returns

Warranty:

TectroLabs stands behind the quality of its products. Your AlphaRNG comes with a 1-year limited warranty, ensuring repair or replacement for any defects in materials or workmanship. For added peace of mind, we also offer an optional 3-year extended warranty.

Returns:

We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If, for any reason, you’re not happy with your AlphaRNG, you can return it within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, minus any credit card processing fees. Please note that the buyer is responsible for return shipping costs.