1.

Q.

What is the difference between true- and pseudorandom numbers?

True random numbers are generated from physical, non-deterministic sources such as thermal noise, nuclear decay or photon polarization.  They cannot be reliably reproduced or predicted.  Pseudorandom numbers are produced by mathematical equations or algorithms which yield sequences that appear to be random by various tests.  Pseudorandom numbers are totally deterministic in nature and may be reproduced exactly, given knowledge of the generating function.  These sequences contain no actual entropy.

Is the Model J20KP TRNG still available?

The Model J20KP hardware TRNG, sold since 1995, is no longer in production. It has been replaced by the QNG Model J1000KU hardware TRNG

Why do I need a true random generator versus a pseudorandom generator?

Cryptography is one field which relies entirely on the non-predictability of certain sequences.  These include cryptographic keys or seeds for pseudorandom generators and also long sequences of bits used in one-time pad (OTP) encryption.  Lotteries and other contests which include random drawings always require some type of random generator which appears to be fair and not susceptible to tampering.  Random selection for drug or other individual testing is subject to legalities which preclude the use of any deterministic, or pseudorandom generator.

Can I use the PCQNG as a random event generator (REG) for micro-PK, DMMI or other parapsychological experiments?

Yes - The PCQNG, which is a true random number generator, will respond to operator intention like other REG's.  It has been designed with a special REG mode for access to data which has been specifically processed for this purpose.

What is the PCQNG?

The ComScire PCQNG True Random Number Generator (TRNG) represents a quantum leap forward in the production of high quality, True or Quasirandom numbers for use on your Personal Computer.  The PCQNG  extracts the True Physical Entropy being constantly generated by hardware already present in your PC to produce a continuous, high-speed stream of virtually perfect random numbers containing one bit of actual entropy per output bit.  The generator's output is made easily available through the PCQNG ActiveX interface with a number of user selectable modes.

How is it possible for a computer to generate non-deterministic or True random numbers?

The PCQNG uses a noise component or jitter produced by Phased Locked Loop circuits in the PC which can be precisely determined.  This jitter is the source of true entropy which is extracted to produce a sequence of true random numbers.  See Design Principles and Testing of the PCQNG 2.0 Device for a detailed technical explanation.

How good are the random numbers produced by the PCQNG Device?

The PCQNG's output has been tested extensively by the most stringent tests available and it has not failed any test for randomness in tests utilizing up to 20 billion bits.  See Design Principles and Testing of the PCQNG 2.0 Device for more information.

What is the return policy for ComScire software licenses?

Software licenses are not refundable once purchased.  ComScire strongly recommends testing any of its software products under a free temporary license prior to purchasing the full license.