I've been thinking about building a hardware based true random number generator. For that, I'll need some kind of analog noise source that can then be digitized. Most of circuits that I've looked at use either a zener diode in avalanche mode or a bipolar transistor in avalanche mode. These appear to be more efficient with a higher supply voltage. I'd prefer to keep the supply voltage at 5 volts. Perhaps a 3.3 volt zener followed by lots of gain stages. But, I've been wondering about other possible noise sources. Does anyone have any ideas for a compact low voltage source of random noise?
One of the ideas I've had, although I'm sure it's not practical, is to use the ionization chamber from a smoke detector. I have one sitting in my junk box. Has anyone ever played with one of these?
One of the ideas I've had, although I'm sure it's not practical, is to use the ionization chamber from a smoke detector. I have one sitting in my junk box. Has anyone ever played with one of these?