Dual-Rail Circuit Mode Switching for Security and Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual rail circuit technology, while improving security against differential power analysis attacks, consumes a significant amount of power, which is inefficient for energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A data processing apparatus with a control unit that allows dual rail circuit components to operate in either a security mode or a power saving mode, where security measures are deactivated in the power saving mode to reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dual rail circuit technology is used to improve security against differential power analysis attacks, then security is improved, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operation modes for dual rail circuit components, allowing them to switch between security mode (with full dual rail operation and precharge states) and power-saving mode (with deactivated security measures). This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to use security-enhancing dual rail technology only when needed, rather than continuously consuming the associated power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of dual rail circuit components by introducing mode selection signals that control whether security measures are active or deactivated. By varying parameters such as precharge state activation and dual rail signal generation based on security requirements, the system achieves both high security when needed and low power consumption during non-critical operations.
2Reliability
If security measures are always active in dual rail circuit components, then protection against attacks is maintained, but power consumption remains high during non-critical operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of security measures through mode selection, where dual rail circuit components operate in security mode during critical operations requiring protection and switch to power-saving mode during non-critical operations. This periodic engagement of security features maintains protection when needed while reducing energy loss during routine operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial security measures by deactivating certain dual rail security features (such as precharge states) when full security is not required. Instead of continuously applying maximum security measures, the system uses only the necessary level of protection for each operational context, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining adequate security.
3Reliability
If dual rail circuit components operate in security mode, then current profile invariance is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the operation of dual rail circuit components based on security requirements, switching between security mode (with current profile invariance) and power-saving mode. This dynamic operation allows the system to achieve current profile invariance only when security is required, rather than maintaining it continuously, thereby resolving the power consumption issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of dual rail circuit components by controlling mode selection signals that enable or disable security features. By varying parameters such as precharge activation and dual rail signal generation based on current security needs, the system achieves current profile invariance selectively, reducing power consumption during operations where it is not required.
Data Source
AI summary
A data processing apparatus having a dual rail circuit component and a control unit for production of drive signals for the dual rail circuit component. The control unit receives an operating mode selection signal, and drive signals for the connected dual rail circuit component are produced as a function of the operating mode selection signal. The circuit components are operated in a security mode or in a power saving mode as a function of the drive signals, with security measures being deactivated in the power saving mode.