Maxim Integrated Korea has launched the 'DS28E38' security DeepCover authentication device that is unaffected by physical invasive attacks. System design engineers can cost-effectively protect intellectual property and products through Maxim's solutions.

As cyber attacks consistently make news headlines, Internet of Things (IoT) devices have emerged as a security vulnerability. Cybersecurity Ventures forecasted global cybercrime damages in 2021 to reach $6 trillion. However, security design remains deprioritized. Most engineers view security implementation as a difficult and costly task requiring extensive time, and they rely on software for system protection. Some security integrated circuits (ICs) are subject to sophisticated attacks that steal encrypted keys and data.

The DS28E38 incorporates Maxim's 'ChipDNA'-based physical unclonable function (PUF) technology to resist invasive attacks. This is because ChipDNA-based root cryptographic keys do not reside in memory or other static states. Maxim's PUF circuit generates cryptographic keys based on random analog characteristics that naturally occur in basic metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) semiconductor devices.

The circuit generates the device's unique key when needed, and the unique key disappears immediately when not in use. When subjected to physical invasive attacks, the DS28E38's sensitive electrical characteristics change, preventing additional security breaches. Additionally, since the security IC key is used directly in cryptographic operations, key management is simplified or becomes unnecessary altogether.

The ChipDNA circuit has demonstrated high stability regarding process, voltage, temperature, and aging, and has passed PUF output evaluation through the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) random test suite for cryptographic quality assurance.

By using the DS28E38, anti-hacking functionality can be incorporated into the design from the beginning. The DS28E38 security authentication device can be easily integrated into customer designs at low cost through Maxim's single-contact 1-Wire interface combined with a simple fixed function instruction set that includes cryptographic operations.

Maxim's ChipDNA security cryptographic tool set provides robust security features including asymmetric (ECC-P256) ▲hardware engine ▲true random number generator (TRNG) ▲decrement-only counter with authenticated read capability ▲2KB security EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-only Memory) ▲64-bit ROM unique identification number.

Single-point operation is possible with 1-Wire, and device-level firmware development is not required. Simplified key management and free host system software tools enable cost-effective and easy implementation. A 5ppb PUF key error rate (KER) is achieved across time, temperature, and voltage, ensuring high stability.

Scott Jones, Senior Director of Embedded Security at Maxim Integrated, stated, "By designing hardware-based security in the early design phase, time, resources, and effort can be saved. Design engineers can apply the highest level of security to their products using the DS28E38 based on ChipDNA technology. It is impossible to steal keys that do not exist," he said.