Electronic device having essential hardware authentication

Abstract

An electronic device having an embedded computer system is provided. The device has a processor supporting a real-time operating system (RTOS). The processor further supports user and supervisor modes. The computer system is programmed such that only code portions directly controlling essential hardware in the device are run in supervisor mode. The code portion directly controlling essential hardware communicates with at least one authentication chip in the device before an operation of the hardware, the authentication chip authorizing the operation

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a Continuation of Ser. No. 11 / 482,967 filed Jul. 10, 2006 all of which is herein incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to an electronic device having an embedded computer system. It has been developed primarily for improving security and protecting the computer system from malicious software tampering, whilst still allowing flexibility in software design downstream of the device manufacturer.CO-PENDING APPLICATIONS[0003]The following applications have been filed by the Applicant with the present application:7,637,5887,648,2227,669,9587,607,7557,699,4337,658,4637,530,6637,467,8467,669,95711 / 482,96311 / 482,9567,695,12311 / 482,9747,604,33411 / 482,9877,708,3757,695,0937,695,0987,722,1567,703,8827,510,2617,722,1537,658,7927,709,63311 / 482,9857,733,53511 / 482,96611 / 482,9887,681,0007,530,4467,654,64511 / 482,9777,571,9067,703,9037,645,0347,637,6027,645,033The disclosures of these co-pending appl...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0046]A major advantage of the present invention is its simplicity for the user. Insertion of a memory stick into a USB port of a PictBridge printer requires no computer skills. Therefore, firmware upgrades of a printer may be confidently performed by anyone without risk or fear of upgrading the printer incorrectly.

[0047]As used herein, the term “memory stick” is used to mean any portable non-volatile digital memory device.

[0048]The memory stick or camera may communicate with the embedded computer system via standard USB connectors.

[0049]Optionally, the memory st

Problems solved by technology

In terms of manufacturing, it is relatively expensive to have one production line dedicated to a first product and another production line dedicated to a second product.

However, an inherent problem with embedded firmware is that it is susceptible to malicious attack from hackers or willful copyright infringers offering unauthorized firmware upgrades.

Moreover, since the QA chip stores its data in a secure, authenticated fashion, it can only be upgraded or replaced by an authentic source.

In this scenario, the security provided by the QA chip would be compromised.

In the above example, un

Images