A Single-Inverter-Based True Random Number Generator with On-Chip Clock-Tuning-Based Entropy Calibration Circuit

This paper introduces an inverter -based true random number generator (I-TRNG). It uses a single CMOS inverter to amplify thermal noise multiple times. An adaptive calibration mechanism based on clock tuning provides robust operation across a wide range of supply voltage 0.5 similar to 1.1 V and temperature -40 similar to 140(degrees)C. An 8 -bit Von -Neumann postprocessing circuit (VN8W) is implemented for maximum raw entropy extraction. In a 130 nm CMOS technology, the I-TRNG entropy source only occupies 635 mu m(2) and consumes 0.016 pJ/raw-bit at 0.6 V. The I-TRNG occupies 13406 mu m(2), including the entropy source, adaptive calibration circuit, and post -processing circuit. The minimum energy consumption of the I-TRNG is 1.38 pJ/bit at 0.5 V, while passing all NIST 800-22 and 800-90B tests. Moreover, an equivalent 15 -year life at 0.7 V, 25(degrees)C is confirmed by an accelerated NBTI aging test.