Date: 24/11/2011

TPM device for motherboard to protect against hacking

STMicroelectronics has announced Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for e-commerce and cloud-computing services. TPM is a highly secure processor mounted on the computer motherboard to protect against threats such as software attacks or theft and tampering, it guards sensitive data such as keys, passwords and digital certificates, and provides trustworthy reports of system integrity. According to the Trusted Computing Group (TCG), the industry alliance promoting Trusted Computing technology, almost all enterprise PCs, servers and various embedded systems now have a TPM inside.

ST says its ST33TPM12LPC will not only achieve functional certification but also Common Criteria security certifications based on the TPM 1.2 latest Protection Profile at EAL4+ level thus fully complying with TPM Certification Program defined by the TCG.

Key features of ST33TPM12LPC include:
ARM SC300 32-bit secure processor capable of supporting:
SHA1 and SHA2 hash algorithms
AES
Ready for next generation TPM 2.0
Embedded EK certificate root certified by independent Certification
Authority (GlobalSign)
Embedded 90nm non-volatile memory
Low Pin-Count (LPC) interface

"The release of the ST33TPM12LPC is another demonstration of ST's leading position in advanced process technology and security expertise. "ST is clearly committed to bringing today's most powerful and compliant Trusted Platform Module not only to the PC industry but also to a virtually unlimited number of connected platforms," said Marie-France Florentin, General Manager, Secure Microcontrollers Division at STMicroelectronics. "With ST having successfully supported TCG technology for years, this new product highlights our ability to take the lead and capitalize on our know-how and assets".

Samples of the ST33TPM12LPC are available in the TCG-recommended TSSOP28 4.4mm surface-mount package or a leadless QFN32 5 x 5mm lead-free Ecopack option. The ST33TPM12LPC will be in volume production in Q1 2012.