OTP Memory Code Generator Using Manufacturing Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing code generating technologies face challenges in efficiently providing unique identification and random number codes using hardware, particularly in electronic apparatuses, where the codes must be consistent and secure, such as in PUF (physical unclonable function) applications.
Innovation Solution
A code generating apparatus comprising a plurality of one-time programming (OTP) memory cells, a reference signal provider, and a sense amplifier, where the OTP memory cells provide read currents to a bit line, and the sense amplifier generates an output code by comparing these currents with a reference signal, with the reference signal's value set within a range determined by the manufacturing variations of the OTP cells, allowing for the generation of both identity and random number codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a code generating apparatus uses manufacturing variations of OTP memory cells to generate codes, then the code uniqueness and security are improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of manufacturing variations (which cause inconsistency in OTP cell currents) into a beneficial feature for code generation. By deliberately utilizing these variations, the system generates unique identification codes and random number codes for each device. The sense amplifier compares the actual current from OTP cells against a reference signal, and the manufacturing variations ensure that each device produces a distinct code pattern, thereby enhancing code uniqueness and security while accepting the manufacturing imprecision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the reference signal value is set within a range determined by manufacturing variations, then the code generation adaptability is improved, but the measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic reference signal mechanism where the reference signal value is not fixed but can be adjusted within a determined range. The system first characterizes the OTP cell current distribution across multiple devices to establish a reference signal range. During operation, the reference signal can be dynamically selected or adjusted within this range to adapt to different manufacturing variations. This dynamic approach allows the same hardware to generate different codes under different reference signals, improving versatility while managing the precision requirements through controlled variability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a code generating apparatus and an OTP memory block. The code generating apparatus of present disclosure includes a plurality of first one time programming (OTP) memory cells, a reference signal provider and a sense amplifier. The first OTP memory cells are coupled to a first bit line. The reference signal provider provides a reference signal. Wherein, at least one of the first OTP memory cells provides a read current to the first bit line, and the sense amplifier compares the read current and the reference signal to generate an output code. A current value of the reference signal is set within a range, and the range is set by the bit current corresponding to a maximum bit count, such as that the output code is determined by a manufacturing variation of the at least one first OTP memory cell.