Embedded memory IP meets security requirements

Accent has implemented embedded nonvolatile memory IP from Kilopass Technology in an SoC that will provide key technology for an intelligent building application.

Accent has successfully implemented embedded nonvolatile memory (NVM) intellectual property (IP) from Kilopass Technology in a system-on-chip (SoC) that will provide the key technology element in the electronic infrastructure for an intelligent building application.

The SoC has been designed by Accent to be easily adaptable to its customer's entire range of electronic products.

Kilopass' XPM memory technology has security characteristics that make it effectively impossible to reverse-engineer.

Because the memory block is embedded, information is internally secured to the SoC's design.

There is no floating charge as with Flash technology, and so low-cost passive reverse-engineering methods are not possible.

In addition, an XPM memory cell has no visible indicators that would reveal its state, if the chip were to be de-layered.

"We chose Kilopass' XPM nonvolatile memory technology for the intelligent building SoC project not only because it met our customer's security requirements but because it could also be embedded easily into an SoC using standard CMOS process technology", said Massimo Vanzi, Accent's General Manager.

"It also meant that the technology could be cost-effectively manufactured by many leading CMOS foundries around the world".

The companies have also announced that Kilopass has become an IP partner in Accent's Highway to Silicon programme.

Highway to Silicon was conceived to offer customers a seamless path for access to and integration of the most advanced silicon technologies into a single chip as well as simplify the management of the semiconductor supply chain, even for low volume production.

With the growing requirement to incorporate secure NVM technologies in SoC projects, the availability of Kilopass' NVM technology enhances Accent's portfolio of technologies available through IP providers.

"Our XPM technology is now being used by leading companies all over the world for secure storage and firmware protection", added Bernie Aronson, Kilopass President.

"We are pleased that Accent has picked us as one of its IP partners and is successfully using our technology for its customers' applications".

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