November 20, 2012, Seoul - Security controllers based on Infineon Technologies' SOLID FLASH™ technology have already been adopted in major projects worldwide. Bank cards issued by Germany's Sparkasse Verlag, Switzerland's Maestro debit cards, and France's Carte Bancaire cards are expected to use Infineon's new SOLID FLASH security controller. Additionally, as production volumes of SOLID FLASH security controllers expand, they are scheduled to be supplied to projects in Africa, Asia (Japan, China, Korea, Indonesia), as well as North America, South America, and other European regions.

Infineon provides the industry's only flash-based security controller that includes not only contact-based payment functionality but also outstanding contactless capabilities. Compared to existing products, SOLID FLASH-based controllers deliver up to 40% improved speed in contactless applications. Reliable high-speed processing capabilities enhance end-user convenience and will further increase demand for contactless bank cards or contactless multi-functional smart cards.

Previously, data was stored in chip cards integrating security controllers based on ROM and EEPROM memory technologies. However, traditional mask ROM technology has reached its limits. Due to chip structure miniaturization, mask costs have increased dramatically, and mask ROM technology no longer meets the flexibility requirements of end products. Infineon's SOLID FLASH integrates more flexible flash memory technology, advanced security mechanisms, and superior reliability.

SOLID FLASH Product Benefits Throughout the Value Chain
Card manufacturers are leveraging the benefits provided by SOLID FLASH technology's superior flexibility in various ways: compared to traditional mask ROM technology, lead time (from design change decision to delivery) can be reduced by 50%. During software development, rapid error-checking and correction can provide additional time and cost savings, and customer requirement changes can be immediately applied using flash technology for short-term modifications. This allows card manufacturers to reduce budgets, inventory costs, and market risks.

SOLID FLASH products also include advanced security and reliability features superior to mask ROM products. Through secure mask transfer, secure download, and special locking mechanisms, security is provided throughout the value chain from prototype development to final product delivery, and is authenticated with hardware. Security locking mechanisms prevent modification of program code and personal data. Each chip is also equipped with a random key. Infineon's flash-based security controller meets the highest current security standards. It has obtained EAL 6+ (high) certification according to the international "Common Criteria" standard and has received EMVCo approval.

Market Trends
As a leading player in the security controller market for payment applications, Infineon holds a 33% market share as of 2011 (IMS, HIS companies, July 2012) and is establishing new industry standards through its SOLID FLASH security products. According to a recent market research report from IMS ("The World Market for Payment and Banking Cards" – 2012 Edition, July 2012), the smart card IC market for payment applications is expected to grow from 1.5 billion units in 2012 to 3.6 billion units in 2017.

Security controllers for payment cards store operational information and personal data for secure processing of payment transactions. The functions required for payment cards are continuously increasing, demanding enhanced security performance in increasingly connected environments. Debit or credit cards are transforming into multi-application cards that provide not only contactless payment but also contactless access functionality for transportation systems. They are also being used in projects promoted by public institutions in regions with weak banking infrastructure, such as South Africa, where smart cards are being used as a means of disbursing social benefits.

Security Technology for a Connected World
Through core competencies in security, contactless communication, and integrated microcontroller (embedded control), Infineon provides a comprehensive semiconductor security product portfolio for various chip cards and security applications. Through these specialized technologies, Infineon enhances security in an increasingly connected world for, for example, mobile payment, system security, and secure authorized electronic documents. Over the past 25 years, Infineon has developed innovative solutions in chip-based security technology, and has led the global market for the past 15 years.

More detailed information about Infineon's chip card and security solutions is available at: www.infineon.com/chip-card-and-security