Maxim Integrated DS28E38Q+T Secure Authenticator

The DS28E38Q+T by Maxim Integrated is an advanced secure authenticator that provides a robust solution for safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring the authenticity of physical devices. This chip is part of the DeepCover® embedded security solutions from Maxim Integrated, which are designed to protect against a wide range of invasive and non-invasive attacks.

At the heart of the DS28E38Q+T is the ChipDNA™ physically unclonable function (PUF) technology. ChipDNA utilizes the naturally occurring random analog characteristics of semiconductor devices to create a unique and immutable identity for each chip, which is virtually impossible to duplicate. This makes the DS28E38Q+T an ideal choice for preventing counterfeiting and unauthorized usage in applications such as medical devices, IoT devices, and secure peripherals.

The device operates over the standard I²C interface and includes a variety of cryptographic tools: a high-quality random number generator (RNG), a FIPS/NIST compliant secure hash algorithm (SHA-3), and an elliptic curve digital signature algorithm (ECDSA). These features enable the DS28E38Q+T to perform secure challenge and response authentication, which is essential for verifying the integrity and authenticity of a system or component.

Moreover, the DS28E38Q+T offers a secure storage for keys and certificates, which are protected by the ChipDNA PUF circuitry. This secure storage ensures that sensitive information remains confidential and tamper-proof. The device is also equipped with a decrement-only counter that can be used for tracking usage and limiting the lifespan of consumable goods or licensed assets.

The DS28E38Q+T is available in a compact, 6-pin TDFN package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications. It operates over a wide temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, ensuring reliability in various environments. With its advanced security features and compact form factor, the DS28E38Q+T stands out as a premier solution for high-security applications where trust and data integrity are paramount.

For designers and manufacturers looking to integrate a high level of security into their products, the DS28E38Q+T provides a proven, cost-effective, and easy-to-implement solution that significantly enhances the overall security posture of their systems.