Flash EEPROM Helps Protect Copyrights

A series of NAND flash EEPROMs supports copyright protection systems for applications such as downloading music files and electronic books from websites. The memories contain a “hidden” block that allows a unique ID number to be recorded on each chip. Used with a matching encryption key, the ID number supports configuration of a secure copyright protection system. The technology will be available on the firm’s 32-, 64- and 128-Mbit flash memories (Models TC58NS32A, TC58NS64 and TH58NS128, respectively).The ID number will be programmed onto the chips before factory shipment and cannot be subsequently rewritten or altered. The 128-bit encryption technology will be initially offered in TSOPs.