PCIe Device ID Configuration via Hard-Coded and Fuse Selection Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for setting PCIe Device IDs (DEVIDs) on hardware devices, such as graphics processing units, offer flexibility but also increase the risk of counterfeiting and waste die space, while hard-coding provides security but lacks flexibility for testing and field upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A combination of hard-coded and fuse-based DEVIDs, with selection logic to choose between them, allowing for flexible engineering and secure operation, including a software override for testing and rebranding capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If straps are used to set the DEVID, then flexibility for testing and field upgrades is improved, but security against counterfeiting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The DEVID is segmented into two parts: a first DEVID stored in secure memory that cannot be altered, and a second DEVID that can be changed via straps. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously provide security (through the immutable first DEVID) and flexibility (through the changeable second DEVID for testing and field upgrades).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the system can select between displaying the first DEVID (secure, immutable) and the second DEVID (flexible, changeable via straps). This intermediary selection mechanism reconciles the conflicting requirements of security and flexibility by allowing context-dependent DEVID display.
2Adaptability or versatility
If straps are used to set the DEVID, then adaptability is improved, but die space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of secure DEVID storage and flexible DEVID configuration into a single chip architecture. The first DEVID is stored in secure memory while the second DEVID uses strap bits, both integrated within the same device. This merging eliminates the need for separate external components, thereby conserving die space while maintaining adaptability.
3Reliability
If hard-coding is used to set the DEVID, then security against counterfeiting is improved, but flexibility for testing and field upgrades deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The DEVID functionality is segmented into two distinct implementations: hard-coded first DEVID for security and strap-based second DEVID for flexibility. This segmentation allows each method to be used for its intended purpose, resolving the contradiction between security and flexibility that exists when using a single method.
4Ease of operation
If straps are used for DEVID, then ease of configuration is improved, but susceptibility to harmful factors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary selection mechanism that allows the system to choose between the first DEVID (secure, hard-coded) and the second DEVID (easy to configure via straps). This intermediary layer protects against counterfeiting by providing a secure fallback option while maintaining ease of configuration when the flexible second DEVID is used.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention includes a hard-coded first device ID. The embodiment also includes a set of fuses that represents a second device ID. The hard-coded device ID and the set of fuses each designate a separate device ID for the device, and each device ID corresponds to a specific operating configuration of the device. The embodiment also includes selection logic to select between the hardcoded device ID and the set of fuses to set the device ID for the device. One advantage of the disclosed embodiments is providing flexibility for engineers who develop the devices while also reducing the likelihood that a third party can counterfeit the device.