Patent ID: 7752247
Filing Date: 2010-07-06
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A general purpose computer that generates true random numbers and utilizes at least some of the true random numbers in an application program, said computer comprising: a true random number generator circuit, mounted on a motherboard of said general purpose computer and receiving power from said motherboard, said true random number generator circuit including an entropy source that, in conjunction with a clock signal, generates random numbers, wherein said entropy source is selected from the group consisting of a thermal noise source and a semiconductor noise source; a memory buffer that stores said random numbers; an interface that interfaces with said random number generator circuit, wherein said interface automatically tests said true random number generator circuit when said general purpose computer is turned on; and an application program installed on said general purpose computer that is capable of performing an operation to read random numbers from said memory buffer, wherein said application program utilizes at least some of said read random numbers within the context of said application program.