Microchip Technology’s new network security chip, TA100, works with a host processor and provides secure key and boot (host code authentication), MAC generation, and certificate storage and management.

Electronics Weekly reported “TA100 removes the challenges associated with secure code development and provisioning by offering pre-programmed cryptographic internal application code provisioned with unique asymmetric key-pairs and associated x.509 certificates,” according to Microchip. “TA100 has already been approved by multiple OEMs around the world as a solution for EVITA Medium and EVITA Full HSM requirements.”

The microcontroller has a running dedicated software inside loaded into the ROM and non-volatile memory during chip manufacture. The component has a nonvolatile memory used for certificate storage and secret/private key storage. With no available programming or debug interface the TA100 has no direct access to the memories from the external pins of the device. 

This internal non-volatile memory is split into three pieces:

• Configuration: in general this is expected to be written prior to the placement of the TA100 device on the application board. Once the configuration is complete, this area must be locked to prevent further modification and for proper device operation.

• Shared data: can be used for keys, secrets, certificates, and/or data. TA100 does not place any requirements on the arrangement or distribution of items stored within this block

• Dedicated data: certain other items are stored, and are managed directly by various commands.

The device had its attack resistance tested through third-party vulnerability assessments. It is AEC-Q100 Automotive Grade-1 qualified, FIPS 140-2 CMVP Security Level 2 rated and physical key protection level 3 certified, and has achieved High in the Joint Interpretation Library (JIL) vulnerability assessment rating.

Software components include:

1.  Autosar compliant MCAL drivers

2. MCALs 

3. Microchip’s CryptoAuthentication library are available for integration into the Autosar operating system or custom crypto function software stacks. 

4. A full Autosar reference stack is available. MikroBus-compatible socket boards are also available

Automotive Tier 1s and OEMs when upgrading ECUs with security according to Microchip v-p Nuri Dagdeviren. “Combining the TA100 and an integrated software stack provides production ready software for our customers, enabling them to add security to any automotive module,” Microchip VP Nuri Dagdeviren said.

Packaging is 8pin or 14pin SOIC.