Fast nondeterministic random bit generator based on weakly correlated physical events

Nondeterministic random bits are needed in many scientific fields. Unfortunately today's computers are very limited in ability to produce them. We present here a method for extraction of nondeterministic random bits from random physics processes and one practical realization of a physical generator based on it. Even if processes are weakly correlateed the method is shown to deliver increasingly good randomness in the limit of slow sampling. A sample of approximately 10(9) bits produced by the physical generator prototype is subjected to a series of well-known statistical tests showing no weaknesses. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.