Maxim Integrated DS28E38Q+U: DeepCover Secure Authenticator

The Maxim Integrated DS28E38Q+U is a highly secure, low-power cryptographic solution from Maxim Integrated's DeepCover® lineup designed to provide robust protection against invasive and non-invasive attacks. It is an ideal choice for safeguarding sensitive data in applications such as medical devices, IoT nodes, and secure peripheral authentication.

This advanced secure authenticator integrates Maxim's patented ChipDNA™ physically unclonable function (PUF) technology, which leverages the naturally occurring random analog characteristics of semiconductor devices to provide a unique identity for each chip. The DS28E38Q+U uses this PUF as a high-quality cryptographic key that does not exist in a static state in the device, thereby providing a strong defense against attempts to clone, reverse-engineer, or tamper with the device.

The device features an asymmetric (ECC-P256) hardware engine that not only accelerates cryptographic operations but also ensures a high level of security by supporting Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) for secure challenge-response authentication. It also offers an optional user-programmable secure EEPROM for storing application data or cryptographic keys, further enhancing its versatility in secure applications.

Operating over the single-contact 1-Wire® interface, the DS28E38Q+U allows for simple integration into designs with minimal pin requirements. This interface also provides a secure channel for data communication, ensuring that the device can be used in systems where data integrity and security are paramount.

The DS28E38Q+U is equipped with robust countermeasures against fault injection and high-security standards, including FIPS/NIST-compliant true random number generation for secure key generation and challenge-response operations. It is available in a compact, 6-pin TDFN package that is suitable for PCBs where space is at a premium.

By incorporating the Maxim Integrated DS28E38Q+U into your design, you can achieve a high level of security assurance, making it an excellent choice for designers looking to protect their systems from sophisticated physical and logical attacks in today's increasingly connected world.