OTP Memory Current Profile Masking via Dummy Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing one-time programmable (OTP) memories, such as those using electronic fuses (eFUSEs), face challenges in protecting confidential information due to detectable current waveforms during programming, leading to potential hacking and inefficiencies like excessive power consumption and slow response times in hand-held devices.
Innovation Solution
A circuit design that includes a first OTP memory and a second dummy OTP memory, where the current profile for the programming supply is masked by receiving inverse data inputs, making the data input undetectable, and utilizing a continuous charge-discharge cycle with a programming capacitor to ensure secure data storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional OTP memory is used to store confidential information, then the data can be stored securely in non-volatile memory, but the current waveform during programming can be observed and used to hack the programmed data
Solution Approach 1:
A dummy OTP memory is introduced as an intermediary component that receives the same programming signals as the real OTP memory. This dummy memory acts as a mediator that absorbs and masks the harmful current waveform signatures, preventing direct observation of the programming activity on the real memory. The dummy memory serves as a decoy that protects the confidentiality of the actual stored data.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical signature or 'color' of the programming operation by introducing additional current paths through the dummy OTP memory. This modifies the observable current waveform characteristics, making it difficult to distinguish between programming operations on the real memory versus the dummy memory, thereby masking the harmful detection signature.
2Productivity
If existing OTP memory programming methods are used, then data can be programmed into the memory, but excessive power consumption occurs during programming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies partial action by directing programming current through both the real OTP memory and the dummy OTP memory simultaneously. The dummy memory receives a portion of the programming current that would otherwise be fully consumed by the real memory, thereby reducing the total power consumption while still achieving the programming function through the distributed current paths.
3Ease of operation
If conventional OTP memory programming is used in hand-held devices, then configuration can be performed, but slow response times are observed
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy OTP memory is pre-configured with dummy data during manufacturing before the device is deployed. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming programming operations during device initialization or configuration, as the dummy memory is already in its final state. The real OTP memory can then be programmed more quickly without the overhead of setting up protection mechanisms during the programming process.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the invention provide for masking a current profile of a one-time programmable (OTP) memory. In one embodiment, a circuit includes: a first one-time programmable (OTP) memory configured to receive a data input for a plurality of address fields; and a second OTP memory configured to receive an inverse of the data input for a plurality of address fields, wherein a current profile for a programming supply for the first OTP memory and the second OTP memory is masked, such that the data input for the first OTP memory is undetectable.