[Cryptech Tech] Alpha board main CPU change

[Jacob]

>> Also, realizing that I don't have any of the credentials required to
>> enter into the sanctum sanctorum of the crypto world, and I know
>> that this is bordering on heresy, but since M4 has a TRNG, will you
>> trust it? If yes, what benefit is provided by the noise board, if
>> any? If not, why would you trust the M4 to manage your external TRNG
>> and FPGA
>
> As others have stated. No, we wont replace our TRNG with the one inside
> the M4. And note that the noise board is only one of our noise sources.
>
> If the TRNG inside is the same design as in the STM32L06, based on
> testing with Dieharder it generates good random numbers. But it is a
> black box. ST does not provide any real information on what the
> underlying physical process is, how it is used to drive a CSPRNG. And of
> course to real insight into what is actually on the chip.
>
> We could use the TRNG in the M4 as an entropy source to feed the TRNG
> inside the FPGA (basically a FIFO into which SW could write words
> consumed during entropy mixing). But replacing the TRNG, no.

I brought up the M4 TRNG issue with a view on any possible subversion of 
its internal design, but I get from you that the issue on hand is much 
more basic - no knowledge what's in it and how it operates - and thus 
can't be fully embraced as a sole actor. Good point.

Jacob