Memory Address Fault Detection Circuitry Against Wordline Attacks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing physical circuit designs lack effective security features to prevent malfunction and data loss due to laser attacks and other hostile intrusions, particularly in memory circuits used in automotive, smart cards, mobile devices, and IoT systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of fault detection circuitry that includes encoder and comparator circuits to encode and compare addresses, detecting faults such as wrong or multiple wordline selections by integrating the circuitry within memory systems on a chip, providing a security feature against laser attacks and other hostile intrusions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fault detection circuitry is integrated into memory circuits, then security against laser attacks is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder circuit and comparator circuit are integrated within the memory circuit itself, merging security functions with existing memory operations. The encoder encodes the address signal and the comparator compares the encoded address with the original address, all within the same memory device, eliminating the need for separate external security circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The fault detection circuitry performs multiple functions: it encodes addresses, compares encoded addresses with original addresses, detects faults caused by laser attacks, and generates error signals. This multi-functional approach consolidates security operations into a single integrated circuit block, reducing overall system complexity despite adding security capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If encoder and comparator circuits are added to detect faults, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fault detection function is divided into two distinct circuit segments: an encoder circuit that encodes the address signal, and a comparator circuit that compares the encoded address with the original address. This segmentation allows each circuit to perform its specific function efficiently, improving detection precision while organizing complexity into manageable, modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder acts as an intermediary between the original address signal and the comparator circuit. It transforms the original address into an encoded form that the comparator can then compare with the original address, enabling precise fault detection through a structured intermediate processing step.
3Reliability
If fault detection circuitry is integrated within memory systems, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder and comparator circuits are fabricated as integrated circuits within the same memory device, merging security functions with memory operations at the manufacturing level. This integration allows both the memory array and fault detection circuitry to be produced using the same fabrication processes, reducing manufacturing complexity compared to assembling separate security devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations described herein are directed to an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may include first decoding circuitry that receives an address and partially decodes the address to generate a partially decoded address. The integrated circuit may include second decoding circuitry that receives the partially decoded address, generates a decoded address, and provides the decoded address to a wordline. The integrated circuit may include encoding circuitry that receives the decoded address from the wordline and encodes the decoded address to generate an encoded address. The integrated circuit may include comparing circuitry that receives the encoded address and compares the encoded address with the address to detect faults in the memory circuitry.