Cybersecurity is entering a new era
Random numbers are essential for encryption, authentication, and secure communication. Today, TRNGs (True Random Number Generators) are widely used and provide strong randomness for many applications. They are based on classical physical effects and have proven their value in real-world systems.
However, TRNG entropy sources are still connected to the physical environment — which means they can be impacted by factors such as temperature, power supply variations, aging, or electromagnetic interference. In high-security scenarios, these influences can become significant attack surfaces, especially as AI-supported analysis continues to advance and computing power increases as rapidly as the criminal activity of hackers.
“We’re bringing real quantum physics directly onto the chip, there by creating a scalable foundation for highly secure cryptographic keys.”
Dr. Bernd Burchard, Vice President IP-Management
How does the QRNG work?
A quantum random number generator uses quantum effects to generate random numbers that are fundamentally unpredictable. Instead of classical physics, QRNG leverages photonic quantum effects, generating randomness that is inherently unpredictable. This makes QRNG particularly attractive for AI- and quantum-secure security architectures, where reducing risk vectors is critical.
The Elmos QRNG is an ultra-small, monolithically integrated solution with scalable data rates from 500kbps up to multi-Mbps, operation down to 1.8V with lowest power consumption, and a short warm-up phase enabling faster key generation. It is available as a standalone IC and comes in a compact DFN-2x2 package. Alternatively, it can be integrated into higher-level designs and technology nodes.
Quantum Random Number Generator wins the German Innovation Award
We are thrilled to receive this award – it demonstrates once again how innovative Elmos is and the contribution we can make to a secure digital future.
This recognition not only confirms our technological expertise but also underscores the importance of true randomness as a key technology for secure digital systems. In an increasingly interconnected world where data security and trust play a central role, this technology makes a significant contribution to applications in the fields of IT security, the automotive industry, and beyond.
The German Innovation Award is a special affirmation of our commitment to innovation. It demonstrates that our development not only breaks new technological ground but also offers concrete solutions to current and future challenges.
Read more in the WirtschaftsWoche press article
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The QRNG shows how highly specialized semiconductor know-how can help address one of the key challenges of our time: protecting data and communication in an increasingly connected world. And behind it stands a cross-functional team that combines expertise in the fields of semiconductor design, quantum effects, system integration, and application-oriented development. This success was made possible by close collaboration across disciplines. From the first concept to an industrially applicable solution, the project brought together technical expertise, creativity, and a shared commitment to innovation.
The German Innovation Award honors solutions that create genuine added value through technological progress, practical relevance, and forward-looking design. The award recognizes the technology’s potential to support more secure and trustworthy digital infrastructures.
“It’s especially great to see how an initial idea has turned into a real innovation. We’ve invested a lot of time, creativity, and team work. I’m particularly pleased that our work can help make the world a safer place in an increasingly interconnected world.”
Julia Kölbel, Development Engineer
“This award is a wonderful recognition of our team’s achievements. Many of our colleagues have made a decisive contribution to this success. And who knows − perhaps the smallest product ever to win this award will ultimately have the greatest impact on society.”
Andreas Nebeling, Vice President Global Business Development
Supported by IPCEI/MECT
We would like to thank the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy for supporting this project under the IPCEI MECT initiative, based on a resolution of the German Bundestag; the European Union – NextGenerationEU; the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Action, and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia; the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism of Baden-Württemberg; and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Energy of the State of Brandenburg.
