Product category:
Reference Designs
News Release from: Cypress Semiconductor | Subject: CY4661 reference design
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial
Team on 16 October 2006
Reference adds fingerprint
authentication
Reference design protects data on external hard disk drives by adding biometric security via fingerprint recognition technology.
Cypress Semiconductor Corp and Upek have introduced a reference design to protect data on external hard disk drives (HDDs) by adding biometric security via fingerprint recognition technology The reference design delivers the industry's strongest security by authenticating fingerprint matches onboard the external HDD system instead of on the PC, ensuring no data is passed between the HDD and PC until a match has occurred
This article was originally published on Electronicstalk on 9 Jul 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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The new CY4661 reference design uses Upek's TouchStrip fingerprint high security authentication solution along with Cypress's EZ-USB FX2LP USB controller to address the growing need for secure personal information and enterprise data on portable drives.
The reference design enables manufacturers of HDDs to add biometric security that only allows those with a registered fingerprint to access data on the drives.
It features match-on-chip, hardware-based authentication for the strongest data and privacy protection available.
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All fingerprint matching functions (template extraction, storage and matching) are conducted in the secure Upek fingerprint hardware-based architecture on the external drive, providing true portability and security from PC security risks.
Upek's hardware-based security architecture, capable of encrypting communications, can also enable future online authentication services.
The CY4661 is bundled with Upek's industry leading Protector Suite Token application software, which simplifies access to data, applications and websites.
The software includes a password bank to securely register and access password-protected websites and applications.
The end-to-end solution ensures plug-and-play ease of use and eliminates the need to download software on a host PC.
"The Cypress/Upek reference design delivers maximum protection for the sensitive data that consumers increasingly store on their portable drives, and it does so with the ease and convenience of the swipe of a finger", said Rajiv Nema, Product Marketing Manager for Cypress's High Speed Peripherals Business Unit.
"The flexibility and performance of the EZ-USB FX2LP controller is a perfect fit for the needs of the rapidly growing biometric security market".
"Upek's complete hardware-based fingerprint solution offers the highest level of biometric security and convenience in the market today", said Vito Fabbrizio, Director of Portable Storage Solutions for Upek.
"This unparalleled protection is enhanced by the performance of Cypress's industry-leading USB technology and is an essential product for individuals on the go".
The Upek/Cypress CY4661 biometric reference design enables fast time to market and reduced integration costs with its hardware and software solution for secure portable hard disk drives.
The reference design includes a field-proven integrated Upek enrolment tutorial that offers consumers an "easy to start" video training and practice session with performance feedback to ensure an excellent user experience.
This results in a satisfying end user experience and greater security due to high-quality matches, leading to fewer support calls, product returns, and improved customer satisfaction.
The new CY4661 reference design can be downloaded free of charge from the "reference designs" section of the Cypress website.
Interested parties can also request a live demo from their local Cypress or Upek sales representative.
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