Converter Module Reduces EMI in Chip Card Security Interfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High-frequency operations in security modules lead to significant electromagnetic interference (EMI), making it difficult to maintain security and system performance while minimizing EMI emission, especially in host devices with slots for security module insertion.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a converter module that operates at a lower frequency than the security module, converting signals to reduce EMI by processing signals at a second frequency lower than the first frequency, and using shielded cabling and conductive materials to minimize EMI emission and penetration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the security module operates at high frequency (in excess of several hundreds of megahertz), then the communication speed and system performance are improved, but electromagnetic radiation increases making it susceptible to interception and EMI
Solution Approach 1:
A converter module is introduced as an intermediary between the host device and the security module. This converter operates at a lower frequency (in the range of several megahertz) and converts signals to the higher frequency required by the security module, thereby isolating the host device from high-frequency electromagnetic radiation while maintaining high-speed communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating frequency parameter of the converter module to be lower than that of the security module. By operating the converter at a lower frequency (several MHz vs. several hundreds of MHz), the harmful electromagnetic radiation is reduced while still enabling high-speed communication through frequency conversion
2Object-generated harmful factors
If shielding materials are used to reduce EMI emission, then electromagnetic radiation is reduced, but manufacturing costs increase due to expensive shielding layers
Solution Approach 1:
The converter module serves as an intermediary that actively reduces EMI through frequency conversion rather than requiring passive shielding materials. This approach replaces expensive EMI shielding layers with a functional solution based on frequency transformation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical approach of using EMI shielding materials with an electronic approach using frequency conversion. Instead of blocking electromagnetic waves with physical barriers, the system converts high-frequency signals to lower frequencies, eliminating the need for costly shielding materials
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a port cover with conductive material is used to limit EMI transfer, then electromagnetic radiation is reduced, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The converter module acts as an intermediary that eliminates the need for complex port covers with conductive materials. By performing frequency conversion, the system reduces EMI at its source rather than requiring additional structural components to block or shield against radiation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces EMI by 50 dB to 60 dB within the 30 kHz to 1 GHz range, making it difficult for third parties to reconstruct operations based on detected EMI and minimizing manufacturing costs by avoiding expensive shielding layers.
Implementation Method 1
converting, by the card reader, at least one of the received signals, said conversion giving at least one communication signal having the first frequency
Implementation Method 2
using shielded cabling and conductive materials to minimize EMI emission and penetration
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention may be deployed in an interface between a security module (CH) housed on a chip card (CC) and a host device (HST) comprising a chip card reader (RDR). In the case where the security module (CH) operates at frequencies which are high enough to generate unwanted electromagnetic interference, the invention allows for a substantial reduction in such interference by providing a converter module (CVT) which allows the host device to operate at lower frequencies while a limited number of short, shielded connections are used to interface with the security module (CH).