Crypto Authentication IC Features 256-Bit Key

The AT88SA 102S is a general-purpose CryptoAuthentication IC designed to protect consumers from counterfeit electronic and medical consumables, such as batteries, ink cartridges, test strips, blood bags, breathing tubes, and others. The device is the first in a family of low-cost, ultra-low-power, extremely secure cryptographic ICs. They can be used in any microcontroller-based system to secure network data transmissions such as satellite radio broadcasts or medical records, protect end products from bogus firmware updates, and validate software or media modules. The 256-bit cryptographic key allows more possible keys than there are atoms in the sun, making it essentially impossible to crack by brute force methods, according to the manufacturer. The AT88SA 102S includes 23 bits of one-time programmable fuses that can be used for personalization, status, or consumption logging and a guaranteed unique 48-bit serial number. The device has a high-speed single-wire interface that is compatible with all microcontrollers, supports a 2.5- to 5.5-V supply range and a 1.8- to 5.5-V communications range. The AT88SA102S is available now in production quantities in a 2.9- by 2.1-mm, 3-pin SOT-23 package that exceeds RoHS requirements. The IC costs $0.66 in quantities of 100 units. ATMEL CORP., San Jose, CA. (408) 441-0311.