Extensible Hardware Configuration Using Memory Info Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
System-on-chip (SoC) devices face limitations in adaptability and security due to traditional One-Time Programmable (OTP) memory, which is costly, inflexible, and vulnerable to unauthorized modifications, making it difficult to change configurations or enable/disable features post-fabrication.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an Info Block Controller and OTP Engine using a central system bus to manage configuration data in a single address space, allowing for extensible hardware device configuration through a sequence of descriptors and write-protection mechanisms, enabling secure and adaptable configuration without requiring redesign.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional One-Time Programmable (OTP) memory is used for configuration, then security and tamper-proof configuration are improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standard memory block as a copy/alternative to the specialized OTP memory. The Info Block implemented in standard memory replicates the configuration storage function of OTP memory without requiring the complex one-time programmable structure, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining configuration security through software-based protection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the memory block universal by using standard memory that can serve multiple purposes: configuration storage (Info Block), general data storage, and program storage. This eliminates the need for separate specialized OTP memory blocks for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the security requirements for configuration data.
2Reliability
If OTP memory is used for configuration, then tamper-proof configuration is achieved, but adaptability and reconfigurability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability by allowing the Info Block to be programmed multiple times through the OTP Engine. The system can transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling initial secure configuration and subsequent reconfiguration for experimentation or design changes, thus achieving both configuration protection and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state parameters of the memory block by introducing unlock mechanisms that allow transitions from a locked (secure) state to an unlocked (reconfigurable) state. This enables the system to maintain security during normal operation while allowing reconfiguration when needed, balancing protection and flexibility.
3Reliability
If OTP memory is implemented, then secure configuration is provided, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive OTP memory with standard memory blocks that are cheaper and more readily available. The security function is achieved through software-based protection (unlock mechanisms, OTP Engine) rather than expensive hardware OTP structures, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining configuration security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the configuration storage function with standard memory blocks that are already present in the SoC for other purposes. By combining configuration storage with general-purpose memory, the system eliminates the need for separate expensive OTP memory blocks, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining security through the Info Block structure and protection mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If configuration is entirely firmware-based, then adaptability is improved, but security deteriorates due to unauthorized modification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by locking the Info Block configuration after initial programming. The configuration data is written to the Info Block and then protected with write-protection bits set to 1, preventing subsequent modifications. This preliminary locking action ensures security while allowing adaptability during the initial configuration phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the OTP Engine as an intermediary between the firmware and the Info Block. The OTP Engine controls access to the Info Block through unlock mechanisms and write-protection bit management, mediating between the need for firmware-based adaptability and the requirement for configuration security against unauthorized modification.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system and method for implementing extensible hardware configuration using memory. A memory containing an Info Block is provided. The Info Block contains a set of descriptors, which comprises an address part and a data part. The OTP Engine reads each valid descriptor stored in the Info Block, and writes the data in the data part into the memory location specified by the address part. The OTP Engine interacts with the Info Block by accessing the Info Block Controller registers via the central system bus.