Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the DS28E10, a challenge-and-response secure authentication IC that includes user-programmable nonvolatile memory. Authentication is implemented with the FIPS 180-3 secure hash algorithm combined with commands that operate on a programmable private secret and random challenge from a host controller. The device provides flexibility to implement private secret sizes from 64 to 288bit whereas the host challenge size is 96bit. 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 IC implements proprietary circuits and methods to protect sensitive data from being captured. This authentication is suitable for a range of cost-sensitive consumer, medical, and industrial products. The IC provides 28byte 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. Unalterable, factory-programmed, 64bit 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 IC is implemented using the company's 1-Wire interface. The single-contact I/O interface enables the part to be easily added to a design from a spare microcontroller or FPGA port pin. The IC operates from 2.8 to 3.6V and is specified over the -40 to +85°C extended temperature range. It is available in 3pin SOT23 and 6pin TSOC packages.
