Date: 12/08/2010

Authentication IC with user programmable nonvolatile memory from Maxim

Maxim has unveiled the DS28E10, a challenge-and-response secure authentication IC that includes user-programmable nonvolatile (NV) memory. Authentication is implemented with the industry-proven FIPS 180-3 secure hash algorithm (SHA-1) combined with commands that operate on a programmable private secret and random challenge from a host controller. Maxim says this device provides flexibility to implement private secret sizes from 64 bits to 288 bits; the host challenge size is 96 bits. These large secret and challenge sizes make algorithmic brute-force attacks to discover the private secret mathematically impractical. Because die-level probe methods are the more likely method of security attack, the DS28E10 implements proprietary circuits and methods to protect sensitive data from being captured, says Maxim. The suggested applications include consumer, medical, and industrial products.

The DS28E10 provides 28 bytes of user-programmable OTP-EPROM portioned with programmable protection modes. This memory can be used to store end-product information such as calibration constants, manufacturing data, and feature settings. Additionally, a unique, unalterable, factory-programmed, 64-bit serial number (ROM ID) is included and can be used as an input parameter for authentication security functions and/or as a unique identifier for the end product.

Communication with the DS28E10 is implemented using Maxim's 1-Wire interface to control easily from a microcontroller or FPGA port pin.

The DS28E10 operates from 2.8V to 3.6V and is fully specified over the -40°C to +85°C extended temperature range.

Package: 3-pin SOT23 and 6-pin TSOC

Price: Starts at US$0.48

Availability: Now and also the evaluation kit.